Unwanted calls, including robocalls and telemarketing, are a persistent nuisance for many U.S. phone users. Fortunately, several effective strategies can help reduce these interruptions. Here's how you can take control of your phone and minimize unwanted calls.
What Are Unwanted Calls and Why Are They a Problem?
Unwanted calls encompass unsolicited telemarketing, robocalls, and scam attempts. These calls can disrupt daily life and pose security risks, as they may attempt to collect personal information or defraud individuals. (consumer.ftc.gov)
How Can I Block Unwanted Calls on My Smartphone?
Use Built-in Features:
Most smartphones offer built-in features to block or filter unwanted calls:
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iPhone:
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Silence Unknown Callers: This feature sends calls from numbers not in your contacts directly to voicemail. (us.norton.com)
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Android:
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Call Screening: Some Android devices allow you to screen calls from unknown numbers, providing a transcript of the conversation. (us.norton.com)
Install Call-Blocking Apps:
Third-party apps can provide additional protection:
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Robokiller: This app identifies and blocks robocalls, offering real-time spam call blocking and a community-driven spam list. (moneytalksnews.com)
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Truecaller: Known for its extensive database, Truecaller identifies unknown numbers and blocks spam calls. (moneytalksnews.com)
Carrier Services:
Many carriers offer call-blocking services:
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Verizon: Offers Call Filter, which identifies and blocks spam calls. (moneytalksnews.com)
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AT&T: Provides Call Protect, which automatically blocks fraud calls and labels suspected spam. (moneytalksnews.com)
What About Landline Phones?
For landline users:
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Call-Blocking Devices: Devices like Nomorobo can block robocalls and telemarketers. (maine.gov)
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Contact Your Service Provider: Some providers offer call-blocking services or devices. (michigan.gov)
How Can I Report Unwanted Calls?
Reporting helps authorities take action:
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Federal Trade Commission (FTC): File complaints at ftc.gov/complaint.
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Federal Communications Commission (FCC): Report unwanted calls at consumercomplaints.fcc.gov.
Are There Any Additional Tips to Reduce Unwanted Calls?
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Register with the National Do Not Call Registry: This can reduce telemarketing calls, though it may not stop all unwanted calls. (consumer.ftc.gov)
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Be Cautious with Your Number: Avoid sharing your phone number unnecessarily to reduce exposure.
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Educate Yourself: Stay informed about common scam tactics to recognize and avoid them.
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce unwanted calls and protect your privacy.
Highlights:
- 5 Effective Ways to Block Unwanted Calls on Smartphones - ConsumerSearch.com, Published on Sunday, January 25
- How to Block All Spam Calls on Your Phone | McAfee, Published on Saturday, November 22
- How to block spam calls on iPhone, Android, and landlines, Published on Wednesday, January 07
