What additional steps can I take to protect myself from scam calls?

Avoid answering unknown numbers, don't engage with suspicious callers, and report scam calls to the FTC at [ReportFraud.ftc.gov](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/).

Effective Strategies to Reduce Scam Calls on Your US Phone Number

Scam calls are a pervasive nuisance in the United States, with millions of Americans receiving unsolicited and fraudulent calls daily. These calls can lead to identity theft, financial loss, and significant disruptions. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to reduce scam calls on your US phone number.

How Can I Register My Number to Reduce Unwanted Calls?

Registering your phone number with the National Do Not Call Registry is a free and straightforward method to reduce telemarketing calls. While this won't stop scam calls, it can decrease the number of legitimate sales calls you receive. You can register online at DoNotCall.gov. After registering, it may take up to 31 days for telemarketers to update their lists. If you continue to receive unwanted calls after this period, you can file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). (consumer.ftc.gov)

What Built-in Features Can Help Block Scam Calls?

Modern smartphones come equipped with features designed to block or silence unwanted calls:

iPhone Users: Enable the "Silence Unknown Callers" feature by navigating to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers. This will send calls from numbers not in your contacts directly to voicemail. (consumer.ftc.gov)
Android Users: Activate spam protection by going to the Phone app > Settings > Caller ID & Spam, and toggle on "Caller ID & Spam". This will warn you about potential spam calls. (malwarebytes.com)

How Do Call-Blocking Apps Enhance Call Protection?

Third-party call-blocking apps can provide an additional layer of defense against scam calls:

RoboKiller: This app uses advanced algorithms and a large database of known scam numbers to block unwanted calls. It also offers features like answering spam calls with pre-recorded messages to waste the scammer's time. (kiplinger.com)
Hiya: Hiya identifies and blocks spam calls in real-time, providing users with a daily report of blocked calls. (kiplinger.com)
Truecaller: This app maintains a vast database of phone numbers and can identify unknown callers, blocking spam and scam calls effectively. (kiplinger.com)

These apps are available for both iOS and Android devices and can be downloaded from their respective app stores.

How Do Carrier Services Contribute to Blocking Scam Calls?

Many mobile carriers offer services to help block scam calls:

T-Mobile: Offers Scam Shield, which provides scam call blocking and caller ID features. (malwarebytes.com)
Verizon: Provides Call Filter, which identifies and blocks potential spam calls. (malwarebytes.com)
AT&T: Offers ActiveArmor, which includes spam call blocking and caller ID features. (malwarebytes.com)

These services may be free or require a subscription, depending on your carrier and plan.

What Additional Steps Can I Take to Protect Myself?

Beyond technological solutions, adopting safe habits can further protect you from scam calls:

Don't Answer Unknown Numbers: If you receive a call from an unfamiliar number, let it go to voicemail. Legitimate callers will leave a message. (consumer.ftc.gov)
Don't Engage with Scammers: If you do answer a suspicious call, avoid providing any personal information or engaging in conversation. Hang up immediately.
Report Unwanted Calls: Report scam calls to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. This helps authorities track and combat fraudulent activities. (usa.gov)

How Effective Are These Methods in Reducing Scam Calls?

While no method can guarantee complete elimination of scam calls, combining these strategies can significantly reduce their frequency:

Registration: Adding your number to the National Do Not Call Registry can decrease telemarketing calls.
Built-in Features: Utilizing your phone's built-in call-blocking features can prevent many unwanted calls.
Call-Blocking Apps: Third-party apps can provide real-time protection and block known scam numbers.
Carrier Services: Services offered by your mobile carrier can add an extra layer of defense.

By implementing these methods, you can significantly reduce the number of scam calls you receive, enhancing your privacy and peace of mind.