Receiving fake local calls can be a significant nuisance, especially when scammers use caller ID spoofing to disguise their identity. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to reduce these unwanted calls and protect your family.
What Are Fake Local Calls and Why Are They a Problem?
Fake local calls occur when scammers manipulate caller ID information to make it appear as though the call is coming from a local number. This tactic, known as caller ID spoofing, is commonly used to gain your trust and increase the likelihood of you answering the call. Once you pick up, they may attempt to solicit personal information or money. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), scammers can use technology to fake the name or number on your caller ID, making it challenging to identify fraudulent calls. (ftc.gov)
How Can You Block Unwanted Calls on Your Cell Phone?
Utilize Built-in Features:
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iPhone: Enable "Silence Unknown Callers" by navigating to Settings > Phone and toggling on the feature. This will send calls from numbers not in your contacts directly to voicemail. (mcafee.com)
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Android: Activate spam protection by going to the Phone app > Settings > Caller ID & Spam, and toggle on "Caller ID & Spam". This feature warns you about potential spam calls. (malwarebytes.com)
Download Call-Blocking Apps:
Third-party apps can provide additional layers of protection by identifying and blocking scam calls. Apps like Robokiller use advanced algorithms to detect and block unwanted calls, offering a more comprehensive solution than standard call-blocking features. (consumer.ftc.gov)
What Services Do Phone Carriers Offer to Block Scam Calls?
Many major phone carriers provide services to help block scam calls:
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T-Mobile: Offers Scam Shield, which includes features like Scam ID, Scam Block, and Caller ID.
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Verizon: Provides Call Filter, which identifies and blocks potential spam calls.
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AT&T: Offers ActiveArmor, which includes spam call blocking and fraud risk alerts.
These services often come with a fee and may require activation through your carrier. (malwarebytes.com)
How Can You Report Unwanted Calls to Authorities?
Reporting unwanted calls helps authorities track and take action against scammers:
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Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Report unwanted calls to the FTC at DoNotCall.gov. Provide the number that received the call, the number on your caller ID, and any number you're told to call back. (consumer.ftc.gov)
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Federal Communications Commission (FCC): File a complaint with the FCC if you believe you're a victim of caller ID spoofing. (usa.kaspersky.com)
What Are Some Additional Tips to Reduce Fake Local Calls?
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Register with the National Do Not Call Registry: While this won't stop all scam calls, it can reduce the number of legitimate telemarketing calls you receive. (consumer.ftc.gov)
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Be Skeptical of Unknown Callers: If you receive a call from an unknown number, especially one that appears local, let it go to voicemail. Legitimate callers will leave a message. (usa.kaspersky.com)
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Don't Engage with Scammers: If you do answer a suspicious call, avoid pressing any numbers or providing personal information. Engaging can confirm your number is active, leading to more scam calls. (mcafee.com)
How Does Robokiller Compare to Other Call-Blocking Apps?
Robokiller stands out by offering features like automatic call blocking, spam call labeling, and a community-driven spam list. Unlike some competitors, Robokiller provides a comprehensive solution that not only blocks unwanted calls but also educates users on identifying potential scams. (consumer.ftc.gov)
By implementing these strategies and utilizing tools like Robokiller, you can significantly reduce the number of fake local calls on your family phone, ensuring a safer and more peaceful communication experience.
