Last updated: 2026-05-06
Scam calls are a persistent nuisance, but you can take proactive steps to reduce them on your mobile phone. Here's how:
Summary
- Utilize Built-in Features: Activate your phone's native call-blocking settings.
- Leverage Carrier Services: Enroll in your carrier's spam protection programs.
- Install Trusted Apps: Use reputable apps designed to block scam calls.
- Adopt Safe Practices: Be cautious with your personal information and avoid engaging with unknown callers.
How Can I Block Scam Calls Using My Phone's Built-in Features?
Both iPhone and Android devices offer settings to help manage unwanted calls.
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iPhone: Navigate to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers. This feature silences calls from numbers not in your contacts, sending them directly to voicemail. (us.norton.com)
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Android: Open the Phone app, go to Settings > Caller ID & Spam, and enable Caller ID & Spam. This will warn you about potential spam calls. (malwarebytes.com)
What Carrier Services Are Available to Block Scam Calls?
Major U.S. carriers provide services to help reduce scam calls:
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T-Mobile: Offers Scam Shield, which includes scam call blocking and caller ID features. (malwarebytes.com)
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Verizon: Provides Call Filter, offering spam detection and blocking. (malwarebytes.com)
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AT&T: Features ActiveArmor, which identifies and blocks potential spam calls. (malwarebytes.com)
Which Apps Are Effective in Blocking Scam Calls?
Several apps are designed to identify and block scam calls:
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Robokiller: Utilizes a global database of analyzed calls and machine learning to identify and block spam calls before they reach you. (makeuseof.com)
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Truecaller: Offers spam call identification and blocking, with a community-based spam detection system. (makeuseof.com)
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Hiya: Provides spam and scam call blocking, along with caller ID and call reason display. (makeuseof.com)
How Can I Protect Myself from Scam Calls?
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Register with the National Do Not Call Registry: This helps reduce calls from legitimate telemarketers. (malwarebytes.com)
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Be Cautious with Personal Information: Avoid sharing sensitive details over the phone, especially with unknown callers.
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Do Not Engage with Suspicious Calls: If you receive a call from an unknown number claiming to be from a reputable organization, hang up and call back using a verified number.
What We Recommend
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Use Built-in Features: Activate your phone's native call-blocking settings to filter out unknown callers.
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Enroll in Carrier Services: Take advantage of your carrier's spam protection programs for additional security.
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Install Trusted Apps: Consider using reputable apps like Robokiller to enhance your defense against scam calls.
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Practice Safe Habits: Be vigilant with your personal information and avoid engaging with unknown callers.
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the number of scam calls you receive, enhancing your mobile phone experience and protecting your personal information.
