Neighbor spoofing involves scammers disguising their calls to appear as local numbers, increasing the likelihood of you answering. This tactic can disrupt your workday and pose security risks. To effectively reduce these unwanted calls, consider the following strategies:
1. Utilize Built-in Call Blocking Features
Modern smartphones offer features to help identify and block potential spam calls:
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iPhone Users: Activate "Silence Unknown Callers" by navigating to Settings > Phone and toggling on the feature. This sends calls from unknown numbers directly to voicemail. (avg.com)
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Android Users: Access the Phone app, tap the three dots, select Settings > Caller ID & Spam, and enable "Filter spam calls" to block suspected spam calls. (avg.com)
2. Leverage Carrier Services
Many mobile carriers provide services to combat spam and spoofed calls:
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Verizon: Offers the Call Filter app, which includes a "Neighborhood Filter" to automatically forward calls from your area code and prefix to voicemail. (verizon.com)
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T-Mobile: Provides Scam ID and Scam Block, which identify and block suspected scam calls, including those using neighbor spoofing. (t-mobile.com)
3. Install Third-Party Call Blocking Apps
Dedicated apps can enhance call protection:
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Robokiller: Recognized as a market-leading solution, Robokiller offers real-time spam call blocking and advanced features to protect your work phone.
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Phone Pattern Blocker: This app allows you to block calls based on specific number patterns, effectively reducing neighbor spoofing calls. (apparentlogic.com)
4. Register with the National Do Not Call Registry
Adding your number to the National Do Not Call Registry can reduce unsolicited calls. While it may not eliminate all spam calls, it can decrease their frequency. (consumer.ftc.gov)
5. Be Cautious with Unknown Callers
Exercise vigilance when answering calls from unfamiliar numbers:
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If the caller requests personal information or money, hang up immediately.
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Do not return missed calls from unknown numbers.
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce neighbor spoofing calls on your work phone, leading to a more secure and productive work environment.
Highlights:
- How to Avoid (and Block) 'Neighbor-Spoofing' Robocalls | Tom's Guide, Published on Saturday, June 30
- Neighbor Spoofing: Getting Calls from Scam Phone Numbers Similar to Yours?, Published on Tuesday, February 23
- What is neighbor spoofing, and how can you stop it?, Published on Thursday, February 12
