This article is about how to block spam calls. Spam calls are unsolicited phone calls that are often used for fraudulent or malicious purposes. Some of the common types of spam calls are robocalls, spoofed calls, telemarketing calls, or scam calls.
How to Block Spam Calls?
Blocking spam calls can help reduce unwanted interruptions and potential scams. Here are steps to block spam calls on your mobile device:
1. Built-In Call Blocking (iOS and Android):
- iOS (iPhone):
- Open the "Phone" app.
- Go to your recent calls or voicemail.
- Tap the info (i) icon next to the spam call number.
- Scroll down and select "Block this Caller."
- Confirm the action.
- Android (varies by manufacturer):
- Open the "Phone" or "Dialer" app.
- Go to your recent calls or call history.
- Tap the number you want to block.
- Select "Block" or "Block/report as spam."
2. Use a Call Blocking App:
- There are various call-blocking apps available for both iOS and Android, such as Hiya, Nomorobo, Truecaller, and RoboKiller. These apps can help identify and block spam calls automatically.
3. Carrier Services:
- Check if your mobile carrier provides call-blocking services. Some carriers offer free or paid call protection features that can help filter out spam calls.
4. Do Not Disturb Mode:
- Enable "Do Not Disturb" mode during specific hours or while you're in meetings. This mode silences all calls and notifications except for contacts in your "Favorites."
5. Report Spam Calls:
- In some call-blocking apps, you can report spam calls to help improve their databases and protect other users.
6. Third-Party Apps and Features:
- Explore other third-party apps and features specifically designed to block spam calls. These apps may offer more advanced filtering options and customization.
7. National Do Not Call Registry (US):
- Register your phone number on the National Do Not Call Registry (donotcall.gov). Legitimate telemarketers should not call registered numbers. However, this won't stop all spam calls.
8. Beware of Caller ID Spoofing:
- Be cautious with calls from unknown or blocked numbers, as some spam callers use caller ID spoofing to mimic legitimate numbers.
9. Check App Permissions:
- Review the permissions granted to your apps. Some apps may access your contacts and call history, potentially contributing to spam call issues.
10. Update Your Software:
- Ensure that your phone's operating system and apps are up to date. Updates may include security improvements and bug fixes that help in call filtering.
Remember that while these steps can reduce spam calls, some may still get through. Be cautious when answering calls from unknown numbers, and do not provide personal or financial information to unsolicited callers.
What are the Types of Spam Calls?
Spam calls are unsolicited phone calls that are often used for fraudulent or malicious purposes. They can pose various risks to the recipients, such as identity theft, financial loss, personal data breach, or emotional distress. Some of the common types of spam calls are:
- Robocalls: Automated calls that use a recorded message or a voice synthesizer to deliver a pre-scripted message. They may ask the recipient to press a number to speak to a live agent, or to provide personal or financial information.
- Spoofed calls: Calls that manipulate the caller ID to display a fake or familiar number, such as a local area code, a government agency, or a legitimate business. They may try to trick the recipient into believing that they are calling from a trusted source, and ask for sensitive information or money.
- Scam calls: Calls that attempt to deceive the recipient into paying money or revealing information for a fake or exaggerated reason, such as a lottery prize, a tax debt, a computer virus, or a family emergency.
- Harassing calls: Calls that repeatedly contact the recipient without their consent, and may use abusive, threatening, or obscene language. They may intend to intimidate, annoy, or harm the recipient.
Bottom Line
In this article, we have discussed how to block spam calls. Reporting spam calls to relevant authorities or organizations can also help combat these scams and protect others from falling victim to them.
