Spam calls are a persistent nuisance, disrupting daily life and potentially exposing users to scams. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to reduce these unwanted interruptions on your mobile phone.
How Can Built-In Features Help Block Spam Calls?
iPhone Users:
- Silence Unknown Callers: This feature sends calls from numbers not in your contacts directly to voicemail. To activate:
- Open Settings.
- Tap Phone.
- Select Silence Unknown Callers and toggle it on.
Android Users:
- Caller ID & Spam Protection: This feature identifies and filters potential spam calls. To enable:
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap the three-dot menu and select Settings.
- Go to Caller ID & Spam and toggle on See caller and spam ID and Filter spam calls.
How Do Carrier Services Assist in Blocking Spam Calls?
Many U.S. carriers offer services to help block spam calls:
- AT&T ActiveArmor: Provides spam call blocking and fraud detection.
- Verizon Call Filter: Identifies and blocks spam calls.
- T-Mobile Scam Shield: Offers scam call protection and caller ID.
These services often require activation through the carrier's app or website.
What Are Third-Party Apps for Blocking Spam Calls?
Third-party apps can enhance spam call blocking capabilities:
- RoboKiller: Blocks spam calls and provides a spam call database.
- Hiya: Identifies and blocks spam calls.
- Truecaller: Offers spam call identification and blocking.
These apps often require a subscription but can provide more comprehensive protection.
How Does the National Do Not Call Registry Help?
Registering your number with the National Do Not Call Registry can reduce unsolicited sales calls. However, it does not block calls from political organizations, charities, debt collectors, or surveys. (kiplinger.com)
What Are Additional Tips to Reduce Spam Calls?
- Avoid Sharing Your Number Publicly: Limit where you share your phone number to reduce exposure.
- Be Cautious with Unknown Numbers: Do not answer calls from unfamiliar numbers.
- Report Spam Calls: Use your phone's features to report spam calls, helping improve detection algorithms.
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the number of spam calls you receive, leading to a more secure and less interrupted mobile experience.
Highlights:
- How to block spam calls on iPhone, Published on Saturday, August 23
- Tired of Unwanted Calls? Here's How to Help Thwart the Robocaller Invasion, Published on Friday, March 06



