Effective Strategies to Reduce Automated Calls on Your Personal Phone

Automated calls, commonly known as robocalls, have become a significant nuisance for many phone users in the United States. These unsolicited calls can range from telemarketing pitches to fraudulent schemes. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies you can implement today to reduce these interruptions.

What Are Robocalls and Why Are They a Problem?

Robocalls are automated phone calls that deliver pre-recorded messages, often for marketing or fraudulent purposes. They can be particularly troublesome as they may mimic local numbers or trusted entities, making it challenging to distinguish legitimate calls from scams. The rise of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology has made it easier and cheaper for scammers to place these calls, contributing to their proliferation. (whocalledus.net)

How Can I Block Unwanted Calls on My Smartphone?

For iPhone Users:

• Silence Unknown Callers: This feature silences calls from numbers not in your contacts, sending them directly to voicemail. To activate:

1. Go to Settings > Phone.
2. Toggle on Silence Unknown Callers.

• Block Specific Numbers: To block a known spam number:

1. Open the Phone app and tap Recents.
2. Tap the info icon next to the number.
3. Select Block this Caller.

For Android Users:

• Block Calls from Unidentified Callers: This feature blocks calls from numbers not in your contacts:

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Tap the three-dot menu and select Settings.
3. Choose Blocked Numbers and enable Block Calls from Unidentified Callers.

• Use Call Screening: Some Android phones offer call screening to identify and block spam calls. For instance, Google's Pixel devices have a built-in feature that screens calls and provides real-time transcripts. (consumerreports.org)

Are There Carrier Services to Help Block Robocalls?

Yes, major carriers offer services to help block robocalls:

• AT&T: Offers ActiveArmor, which detects and blocks calls from likely fraudsters and identifies suspected spam calls. (goodhousekeeping.com)

• Verizon: Provides Call Filter, which screens incoming calls and alerts you to potential spam.

• T-Mobile: Offers Scam Shield, which includes features like scam ID and scam block.

These services may require activation and could involve additional fees. (consumerreports.org)

What Are Some Effective Third-Party Apps to Block Robocalls?

Several apps are designed to identify and block robocalls:

• RoboKiller: This app uses a database of known robocall numbers to block unwanted calls and offers features like answering spam calls with pre-recorded messages to waste the scammer's time. (kiplinger.com)

• Hiya: Provides spam detection and blocking, along with reverse phone lookup features.

• Truecaller: Identifies unknown calls and blocks spam calls.

These apps are available for both iOS and Android devices. (kiplinger.com)

How Can I Register to Reduce Telemarketing Calls?

You can register your number with the National Do Not Call Registry to reduce telemarketing calls:

1. Visit donotcall.gov.
2. Click on Register Your Phone.
3. Enter your phone number and email address.
4. Confirm your registration via email.

While this service is free and registration never expires, it may not block all types of calls, such as those from political organizations or charities. (consumer.ftc.gov)

What Are Some Additional Tips to Avoid Robocalls?

• Do Not Engage: Avoid answering calls from unknown numbers. If it's important, the caller will leave a voicemail.

• Report Unwanted Calls: If you receive a robocall, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at Report Unwanted Calls.

• Be Cautious with Your Number: Limit sharing your phone number online and be cautious about where you provide it.

By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the number of automated calls you receive, leading to a more peaceful and secure phone experience.

Highlights:

• Tired of Unwanted Calls? Here's How to Help Thwart the Robocaller Invasion, Published on Friday, March 06