How can I block scam calls on my iPhone?

On your iPhone, go to Settings > Phone and enable 'Silence Unknown Callers' to send calls from numbers not in your contacts directly to voicemail.

What carrier services can help block scam calls?

Major carriers offer services like T-Mobile's Scam Shield, Verizon's Call Filter, and AT&T's ActiveArmor to identify and block scam calls.

Effective Strategies to Reduce 'Scam Likely' Calls on Your Personal Phone

Receiving 'Scam Likely' calls on your personal phone can be both frustrating and concerning. These unsolicited calls often aim to deceive or defraud unsuspecting individuals. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies you can implement today to reduce the frequency of these unwanted calls.

What Are 'Scam Likely' Calls?

'Scam Likely' calls are incoming calls identified by your phone or carrier as potential scams. This identification is based on known patterns, such as the use of spoofed numbers or high-volume calling behaviors. While this feature helps in screening potential scams, it's not foolproof, and some legitimate calls might still be flagged.

How Can Built-In Phone Features Help Block Scam Calls?

iPhone Users:

Silence Unknown Callers: Navigate to Settings > Phone and enable 'Silence Unknown Callers.' This feature sends calls from numbers not in your contacts directly to voicemail. (malwarebytes.com)

Android Users:

Caller ID & Spam Protection: Open the Phone app, go to Settings > Caller ID & Spam, and toggle on 'See caller and spam ID' and 'Filter spam calls.' This will warn you about potential scam calls automatically. (malwarebytes.com)

What Carrier Services Are Available to Block Scam Calls?

Major mobile carriers offer services designed to identify and block scam calls:

T-Mobile: Scam Shield
Verizon: Call Filter
AT&T: ActiveArmor

These services often include caller ID, spam warnings, and auto-blocking features, though some may come with a fee. (malwarebytes.com)

How Do Third-Party Apps Assist in Blocking Scam Calls?

Third-party apps can provide robust scam call-blocking solutions, often with customizable features and real-time spam databases. Popular apps include:

RoboKiller: Known for its advanced spam detection and blocking capabilities.
Hiya: Offers real-time alerts and automatic blocking of scam calls.
Truecaller: Maintains a large database of known scam numbers and provides caller ID services.

These apps can be downloaded from your device's app store and often require a subscription for full features. (consumer.ftc.gov)

How Does the National Do Not Call Registry Help Reduce Scam Calls?

Registering your number with the National Do Not Call Registry helps reduce calls from legitimate telemarketers. However, it won’t stop illegal robocalls or spoofed scam likely numbers. To register, visit DoNotCall.gov or call 1-888-382-1222. (consumer.ftc.gov)

What Are Additional Steps to Minimize Scam Calls?

Avoid Engaging with Unknown Callers: Do not answer calls from unknown numbers. (security.org)
Report Unwanted Calls: Report unwanted calls to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. (consumer.ftc.gov)
Be Cautious with Personal Information: Never share personal or financial information over the phone unless you're certain of the caller's identity.

By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the number of 'Scam Likely' calls you receive, enhancing your phone's security and your peace of mind.