Unwanted calls, including robocalls and spam, are a persistent nuisance for mobile phone users. In 2025, Americans received over 52.5 billion robocalls, averaging roughly 13–15 spam calls per person each month. (antivirus.com) To effectively reduce these interruptions, consider the following strategies:
How Can Built-in Phone Features Help Block Unwanted Calls?
Modern smartphones come equipped with features designed to identify and block spam calls.
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iOS Devices: With the release of iOS 26, Apple introduced the "Call Screening" feature. This tool acts as a virtual assistant, prompting unknown callers to state their purpose, which is then transcribed in real-time. Users can decide to answer, decline, or send the call to voicemail, effectively filtering out spam and scam calls. (cincodias.elpais.com)
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Android Devices: Samsung's Galaxy S26 offers a "Call Screening" feature that screens unknown calls automatically. Users can enable this feature through the Call Settings menu, providing an additional layer of protection against unwanted calls. (tomsguide.com)
How Do Carrier Services Assist in Blocking Unwanted Calls?
Many mobile carriers provide services to help block spam calls:
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T-Mobile Scam Shield: This free app offers advanced call control features, including spam call blocking and caller ID. It empowers users to manage and block unwanted calls effectively. (appshunter.io)
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NordVPN's Spam Call Protection: Integrated within NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro suite, this feature alerts users about suspected spam calls before they answer, aiming to tackle phishing and social engineering risks without compromising user privacy. (techradar.com)
What Are the Top Third-Party Apps for Blocking Unwanted Calls?
Several third-party applications offer robust solutions to combat spam calls:
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RoboKiller: This app employs diverse methods, including blacklisting, whitelisting, and identification, to prevent robocalls and spam calls. Beyond call blocking, it offers versatile features like call screening, forwarding, and voicemail transcription. RoboKiller is available for $3.99/month or $39.99/year. (antivirus.com)
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Truecaller: With a global user base of 250 million, Truecaller identifies unknown callers in real-time using its extensive spam database. It offers features like caller ID, spam detection, and call recording. The free version includes ads, while the premium version is available for $2.99/month. (antivirus.com)
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Hiya: Hiya uses advanced AI features to block robocalls, spam, and scam calls using a constantly updated global database and community reports. It offers real-time alerts when suspicious numbers try to call and can detect when scammers use numbers similar to your own. (drfone.wondershare.com)
How Can You Manually Block Specific Numbers?
Most smartphones allow users to block specific numbers directly:
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iOS Devices: Open the Phone app, go to the Recents tab, tap the information icon next to the number, and select "Block this Caller."
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Android Devices: Open the Phone app, tap the three-dot menu, select "Settings," then "Blocked numbers," and add the desired number.
What Are the Limitations of Blocking Unwanted Calls?
While these methods can significantly reduce unwanted calls, they may not eliminate them entirely. Scammers continually adapt, sometimes using new numbers or methods to bypass filters. Regularly updating your apps and device software can help maintain effective protection.
How Can You Report Unwanted Calls to Authorities?
In the United States, you can report unwanted calls to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) through their website. This helps authorities track and take action against fraudulent callers.
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the number of unwanted calls on your mobile device, leading to a more secure and less interrupted communication experience.
Highlights:
- Say goodbye to spam calls - NordVPN launches new spam call protection, Published on Tuesday, July 29
- iOS 26 mejora la gestión de llamadas: así funciona el nuevo filtro contra spam, Published on Monday, January 12
- This hidden Samsung Galaxy S26 feature will filter out scammers and other nuisance calls - here how you switch it on, Published on Wednesday, April 08
