Scam calls are a persistent nuisance for iPhone users, often leading to unwanted interruptions and potential security risks. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to reduce these unwanted calls.
How Can You Utilize Built-in iPhone Features to Block Scam Calls?
Your iPhone offers a native feature designed to silence calls from unknown numbers, which can be particularly useful for avoiding unsolicited calls.
Silence Unknown Callers
This feature automatically silences calls from numbers not saved in your contacts, sending them directly to voicemail. To activate it:
- Open the Settings app.
- Scroll down and tap on Phone.
- Toggle on Silence Unknown Callers.
While this method effectively reduces spam calls, it may also silence important calls from unknown numbers. Therefore, it's advisable to check your voicemail regularly to ensure you don't miss any critical communications. (makeuseof.com)
What Are Carrier Services for Blocking Scam Calls?
Many mobile carriers offer services to help identify and block scam calls. These services often come at an additional cost but can provide an extra layer of protection.
Carrier Services
- AT&T ActiveArmor® Mobile Security: This service offers spam call blocking and alerts for potential threats.
- T-Mobile Scam Shield: Provides scam call blocking and caller ID features.
- Verizon Call Filter: Identifies and blocks potential spam calls.
These services can be activated through your carrier's app or customer service. Keep in mind that they may require a subscription fee. (tomsguide.com)
Which Third-Party Apps Are Effective in Blocking Scam Calls?
Several third-party apps are designed to identify and block scam calls, offering features like real-time caller ID and spam reporting.
Top-Rated Apps
- Robokiller: Blocks 99% of robocalls and texts, and includes customizable "Answer Bots" to waste scammers' time. (avnexo.com)
- Truecaller: Identifies unknown numbers and flags potential spam calls, with a large database of known spammers. (makeuseof.com)
- Hiya: Offers advanced spam detection and integrates well with carriers like AT&T and T-Mobile. (avnexo.com)
How to Set Up a Third-Party App
- Download the app from the App Store.
- Open the app and follow the setup instructions.
- Go to Settings > Phone > Call Blocking & Identification.
- Enable the app to allow it to filter calls.
These apps often offer free versions with basic features, with premium versions available for more advanced functionalities.
How Can You Report and Block Unwanted Numbers Manually?
If you receive a scam call from a number not recognized by your call-blocking app, you can manually block the number and report it.
Blocking a Number
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap on the Recents tab.
- Find the number you want to block and tap the info icon.
- Scroll down and tap Block this Caller.
Reporting a Number
- Truecaller: Allows users to report spam numbers directly within the app.
- Hiya: Provides options to report spam calls and texts.
By reporting unwanted numbers, you contribute to the app's database, helping improve its spam detection capabilities.
What Are Additional Tips to Minimize Scam Calls?
- Be Cautious with Your Number: Avoid sharing your phone number publicly or with untrusted sources.
- Register with the National Do Not Call Registry: This can reduce the number of unsolicited calls you receive.
- Educate Yourself: Stay informed about common scam tactics to recognize and avoid them.
Implementing these strategies can significantly reduce the number of scam calls you receive, enhancing your privacy and peace of mind.
Highlights:
- How to block spam calls on iPhone, Published on Saturday, August 23
- Say goodbye to spam calls - NordVPN launches new spam call protection, Published on Tuesday, July 29
