Block Spam Calls on iPhones & Android: Effective Guide

 

How to Effectively Block and Stop Spam Calls on iPhones and Android Phones

Courtsey of Christiaan Colen

Spam calls are a persistent annoyance in our daily lives, disrupting our routines and stealing our time. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with a range of practical tips and tools for putting an end to unwanted calls on both iPhone and Android devices. Our goal is to help you maintain your privacy and sanity amidst a sea of telemarketers, robocallers, and scammers.

Table of Contents

1. Understanding Spam Calls and Their Impact
2. Built-in iPhone Features for Blocking Spam Calls
3. Built-in Android Features for Blocking Spam Calls
4. Best Third-Party Apps for Blocking Spam Calls
5. Reporting Spam Calls and Protecting Your Privacy
6. Final Thoughts on Stopping Spam Calls

Understanding Spam Calls and Their Impact

Spam calls come in many forms, including telemarketing calls, robocalls, and scam calls. These unsolicited calls have become increasingly sophisticated, often employing caller ID spoofing to trick users into answering their phones. By understanding the different types of spam calls and the methods scammers use, you'll be better equipped to protect yourself and effectively block these annoying intrusions.

Built-in iPhone Features for Blocking Spam Calls

Apple has included several useful features in iOS to help iPhone users combat spam calls. Here are three built-in options that can help you manage and block unwanted calls:

Silence Unknown Callers

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Scroll down and tap Phone.
3. Enable the Silence Unknown Callers toggle switch.

This feature sends calls from unknown numbers straight to voicemail while allowing calls from your contacts, recent outgoing calls, and Siri suggestions to ring normally.

Block Specific Contacts

1. Open the Phone app and navigate to the Recents tab.
2. Find the number you wish to block, then tap the ⓘ icon next to it.
3. Scroll down and tap Block this Caller.

Create Custom Contacts for Spam Callers

1. Save spam callers as a new contact (e.g., "Spam Call 1").
2. Set a custom ringtone for these contacts, such as "Silent" or a short, quiet sound.
3. You'll still see the call, but it won't disrupt your day with an audible ring.

Built-in Android Features for Blocking Spam Calls

Android phones also come with built-in options for managing and blocking spam calls. Here are two methods you can use on most Android devices:

Block Specific Numbers

1. Open the Phone app and tap the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
2. Choose Settings and then Blocked numbers.
3. Tap Add a number and enter the phone number you wish to block.

Enable Caller ID and Spam Protection

1. Open the Phone app and tap the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
2. Choose Settings and then Caller ID & spam.
3. Toggle on Caller ID & spam and Filter spam calls.

This feature helps to identify and warn you about potential spam calls, giving you the option to block or report them.

Best Third-Party Apps for Blocking Spam Calls

Photo by Hannes Johnson on Unsplash

There are several reliable third-party apps available that offer advanced features for blocking and managing spam calls. Here are three top-rated apps that you can use to enhance your call-blocking capabilities:

1. Hiya - Caller ID & Block (iOS and Android)

Hiya offers a comprehensive database of known spam numbers, real-time call identification, and automatic blocking of unwanted calls. It also provides a reverse phone lookup feature.

Download Hiya: iPhone | Android

📌 "Stop spam calls in their tracks with Hiya!"

2. RoboKiller - Spam Call Blocker (iOS and Android)

RoboKiller uses advanced machine learning algorithms to identify and block spam calls. Additionally, it offers unique features like Answer Bots, which engage telemarketers with pre-recorded messages to waste their time.

Download RoboKiller: iPhone | Android

📌 "Reclaim your time and sanity with RoboKiller's powerful spam call blocking!"

3. Call Control - SMS/Call Blocker (iOS and Android)

Call Control boasts a user-driven database of spam numbers, flexible blocking options, and a Do Not Disturb mode to ensure peace and quiet during designated hours.

Download Call Control: iPhone | Android

📌 "Take control of your calls with Call Control!"

Reporting Spam Calls and Protecting Your Privacy

Reporting spam calls can help authorities crack down on scammers and protect other users from falling prey to their tactics. Here's how you can report spam calls:

1. FTC Complaint Assistant
2. FCC Consumer Complaint Center

Additionally, consider registering your number on the National Do Not Call Registry to reduce the number of telemarketing calls you receive.

Essential Phone Accessories for a Spam-Free Life:

• Portable Phone Charger - Never miss a moment to block spam calls with this reliable portable charger. Stay powered up and in control! 📱⚡
• 48Hr Bluetooth Headset - Focus on what matters and ignore those pesky spam calls with this top-quality headset. Hear the difference today! 🎧🔇

🛍️ Upgrade your phone experience and stay one step ahead of spam callers with these must-have accessories

Final Thoughts on Stopping Spam Calls

By combining built-in smartphone features, third-party apps, and vigilant reporting, you can effectively reduce the number of spam calls you receive and protect your privacy. With these tools and strategies, you'll be well-equipped to maintain peace and quiet in your daily life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How can I identify a spam call?

A: Spam calls often use caller ID spoofing to display fake numbers, making it difficult to identify them. However, if you receive a call from an unknown number, especially if it's from a different area code or country, it's wise to be cautious. Additionally, if the caller tries to pressure you into making a quick decision, providing personal information, or making a payment, it's likely a spam call.

Q: Can I block spam calls without using third-party apps?

A: Yes, both iPhones and Android phones have built-in features to help you block and manage spam calls. For example, iPhones have the "Silence Unknown Callers" option, while Android phones offer "Caller ID & Spam" protection. However, third-party apps often provide more advanced features and larger databases of known spam numbers.

Q: Are third-party spam call blocking apps safe to use?

A: While most reputable spam call blocking apps are safe, it's essential to read reviews and verify the app's credibility before downloading it. Always download apps from official app stores, such as the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, and pay attention to user reviews and ratings.

Q: Will registering on the National Do Not Call Registry stop all spam calls?

A: Registering on the National Do Not Call Registry can help reduce the number of telemarketing calls you receive. However, it won't stop all spam calls, particularly those from scammers who ignore the registry's rules. Combining registry registration with built-in phone features and third-party apps will provide the most comprehensive spam call protection.

Q: What should I do if I accidentally answer a spam call?

A: If you realize you've answered a spam call, it's best to hang up immediately without providing any personal information or engaging with the caller. Afterward, block the number using your phone's built-in blocking features and consider reporting the call to the FTC or FCC.