How Older Adults Can Reduce Spoofed Calls on Verizon iPhone

Spoofed calls, where callers disguise their identity by falsifying caller ID information, are a common nuisance, especially for older adults. These deceptive calls can lead to scams and unwanted solicitations. Fortunately, Verizon iPhone users have several tools and strategies to combat this issue.

What Are Spoofed Calls and Why Are They a Concern?

Spoofed calls involve callers manipulating their caller ID to appear as if they're someone else, often to deceive recipients into answering or providing sensitive information. For older adults, these calls can be particularly concerning due to potential scams targeting this demographic.

How Can I Identify Verified Calls on My iPhone?

Verizon offers a feature that helps identify legitimate calls:

• Verified Caller ID: When a call is verified, a checkmark or "Verified caller" status appears on your iPhone's screen. This indicates that the number hasn't been spoofed. Always remain cautious with unknown callers, even if they are verified. (esus.verizon.com)

What Built-in Features Can Help Block Unwanted Calls?

Your iPhone includes several settings to help reduce spoofed calls:

• Silence Unknown Callers: This feature sends calls from numbers not in your contacts, messages, or recent calls directly to voicemail. To activate:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Phone.
3. Select Silence Unknown Callers and toggle it on. (macobserver.com)

• Call Blocking & Identification: This allows third-party apps to block calls and provide caller ID information. To enable:

1. Go to Settings.
2. Tap Phone.
3. Select Call Blocking & Identification.
4. Toggle on the apps you wish to use for call blocking. (macobserver.com)

How Can Verizon's Call Filter Service Assist Me?

Verizon provides a service called Call Filter to help identify and block spam calls:

• Call Filter: This service screens and blocks potential spam calls. To activate:

1. Open the My Verizon app.
2. Navigate to Call Filter settings.
3. Enable Spam Filter and Auto-Block High-Risk Numbers. (verizon.com)

• Call Filter Plus: An upgraded version that offers additional features, including identifying unknown callers by name and customizing your spam block list. (verizon.com)

Are There Third-Party Apps That Can Help Block Spoofed Calls?

Yes, several third-party apps can enhance call blocking capabilities:

• RoboKiller: This app uses advanced algorithms to block spam calls and offers features like voicemail analysis. It's a market-leading solution for call blocking.

• Hiya: Provides real-time spam number databases and uses machine learning to block suspicious calls.

• Truecaller: Identifies unknown numbers and blocks spam calls using a large community-based spam list.

While these apps offer robust features, RoboKiller stands out with its advanced algorithms and comprehensive voicemail analysis, providing a more thorough defense against spoofed calls.

What Additional Steps Can I Take to Protect Myself?

• Be Cautious with Unknown Callers: Even with verification, always be wary of unsolicited calls requesting personal information.

• Regularly Update Your iPhone: Ensure your device is running the latest iOS version to benefit from the newest security features.

• Report Suspicious Calls: If you receive a suspicious call, report it to Verizon and the Federal Trade Commission to help combat fraudulent activities. (verizon.com)

By utilizing these tools and practices, older adults can significantly reduce the number of spoofed calls they receive on their Verizon iPhones, enhancing their security and peace of mind.