How to Block Spam Calls on Android and iPhone

1. Introduction

Spam calls have become an everyday annoyance, interrupting important tasks and causing frustration. Worse yet, they often come with scams, phishing attempts, and fraud risks. Blocking these unwanted calls is no longer just a convenience—it’s a necessity to protect your privacy and security.

With advancements in technology, both Android and iPhone users now have multiple tools to combat spam calls effectively. From built-in features to third-party apps and carrier-based solutions, this guide covers all the options available.

Are you tired of constant interruptions from unknown numbers? Read on to discover the best ways to block spam calls and regain your peace of mind!

2. Understanding Spam Calls

What Are Spam Calls?

Spam calls are unsolicited phone calls often made for advertising, fraud, or scam purposes. They may range from robocalls promoting fake products to phishing calls trying to steal personal information.

Common Types of Spam Calls

1. Telemarketing Calls – Promotions or advertisements from companies.
2. Robocalls – Automated calls with pre-recorded messages.
3. Scam Calls – Calls attempting to steal sensitive data.
4. Spoofed Calls – Calls that mimic local or known numbers to trick recipients.

Spam calls exploit vulnerabilities, making it essential to take preventive measures.

3. Built-in Features to Block Spam Calls

Android’s Built-in Spam Blocking Tools

1. Google Phone App Features

• Open the Phone App > Tap Settings > Select Spam and Call Screen > Turn on Filter Spam Calls.
• Enables automatic filtering for suspected spam calls without ringing your phone.

2. Samsung Smart Call

• Samsung users can enable Smart Call by going to the Phone App > Settings > Caller ID and Spam Protection.
• It identifies and blocks spam calls based on Samsung’s database.

iPhone’s Built-in Spam Blocking Tools

1. Silence Unknown Callers

• Go to Settings > Phone > Enable Silence Unknown Callers.
• Sends calls from unknown numbers straight to voicemail.

2. Blocking Specific Numbers

• Open Phone App > Recent Calls > Tap the (i) icon next to the number > Select Block this Caller.
• Prevents specific numbers from calling again.

Both Android and iPhone provide basic tools, but you may need additional layers of protection for advanced filtering.

4. Third-Party Apps for Spam Blocking

Best Spam Call Blocker Apps for Android

1. Truecaller

• Global database of spam numbers.
• Real-time spam detection and caller ID.

2. Hiya

• Detects spam calls and blocks them automatically.
• Free version available with essential features.

3. RoboKiller

• AI-powered blocking and spam identification.
• Allows pre-set responses to spammers.

Best Spam Call Blocker Apps for iPhone

1. Nomorobo

• Recognized for its effectiveness in blocking robocalls.
• Affordable subscription plans.

2. Mr. Number

• Identifies and blocks specific types of spam calls.
• Offers user-friendly controls.

3. Call Control

• Community-powered blocking lists.
• Allows detailed call filtering options.

These apps are ideal for those needing additional customization and features beyond built-in tools.

5. Enabling Carrier-Based Spam Blocking Services

Many carriers now offer built-in solutions to help reduce spam calls:

AT&T ActiveArmor

• Automatic spam detection and call blocking.
• Free and premium plans available.

Verizon Call Filter

• Identifies spam calls and blocks high-risk numbers.
• Premium version includes enhanced caller ID features.

T-Mobile Scam Shield

• Free scam identification and blocking tools.
• Allows temporary numbers to protect your privacy.

Activating these services often requires downloading the carrier’s app and enabling settings.

6. Using Do Not Disturb Mode Effectively

Do Not Disturb (DND) is a simple yet powerful tool for managing unwanted calls. Both Android and iPhone devices offer customizable DND features that can effectively block spam calls without compromising essential communication.

Customizing DND for Blocking Calls

1. Android Users:
   • Go to Settings > Sound & Vibration > Do Not Disturb.
   • Enable Do Not Disturb and customize it under Exceptions.
   • Allow calls only from Contacts or specific groups.
2. iPhone Users:
   • Navigate to Settings > Focus > Do Not Disturb.
   • Add specific contacts to the allowed list under People.
   • Choose to silence calls from unknown numbers.

Allowing Calls Only from Contacts

With DND activated, you can allow calls from trusted numbers while blocking everything else. This ensures you won’t miss important calls while eliminating disturbances from spam or robocalls.

Scheduling DND Mode

• Set a time schedule for DND to automatically activate during working hours, meetings, or nighttime.
• Use the Repeat Callers option to allow calls that might indicate emergencies (e.g., repeated attempts within 3 minutes).

By leveraging DND settings, you create a balance between accessibility and privacy.

7. Managing Permissions and Privacy Settings

Spam callers often gather phone numbers through unauthorized access to personal data. Tightening privacy settings reduces exposure to such threats.

Reviewing App Permissions

• Android: Go to Settings > Apps > Select App > Permissions.
• iPhone: Open Settings > Privacy > Contacts/Phone/Messages.
• Revoke permissions for apps that don’t need access to your contacts or call logs.

Limiting Access to Phone Numbers

Avoid sharing your phone number on public websites, social media, or online forms. Use secondary or temporary numbers when signing up for online services.

Disable Caller ID Sharing

• On Android, disable caller ID sharing in the Phone app settings.
• On iPhone, go to Settings > Phone > Show My Caller ID and toggle it off.

Enhancing privacy settings significantly lowers the chances of your number being targeted by spammers.

8. Reporting Spam Calls to Authorities

Blocking spam calls is only half the battle. Reporting them helps reduce future incidents by allowing authorities to track and take action against offenders.

Reporting to FTC and FCC

• FTC (Federal Trade Commission): File complaints via the National Do Not Call Registry at donotcall.gov.
• FCC (Federal Communications Commission): Report robocalls at fcc.gov.

Using Built-in Reporting Tools in Apps

• Many phones and third-party apps allow quick reporting of spam numbers directly through the interface.
• Android Users: Tap Block/Report as Spam from the call log.
• iPhone Users: Select the (i) icon next to the number, tap Report Junk, and block the caller.

Carrier Reporting Services

• Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile provide spam call reporting via their respective apps or by dialing codes like #662# to report spam.

Taking the time to report spam numbers helps build a robust database that benefits everyone.

9. Blocking Spam Text Messages

Spam isn’t limited to calls—text messages can also be a nuisance. Fortunately, both Android and iPhone have built-in options to block spam texts effectively.

Built-in Message Blocking on Android

1. Open the Messages App.
2. Long-press the spam message > Tap Block & Report Spam.
3. Confirm and report to Google if prompted.

Built-in Message Blocking on iPhone

1. Open the Messages App.
2. Select the spam message > Tap the sender’s name.
3. Scroll down and tap Block this Caller.

Third-Party SMS Blocking Apps

Apps like Truecaller, RoboKiller, and Hiya also extend their services to text message filtering, providing an additional layer of security.

Preventing Future Spam Texts

• Avoid responding to suspicious messages.
• Refrain from clicking on links sent by unknown numbers.
• Enable Filter Unknown Senders under Settings > Messages for iPhones.

Keeping both calls and texts spam-free ensures better control over your communications.

10. Avoiding Common Spam Call Traps

Spam callers often employ psychological tactics to lure victims. Recognizing these tricks can save you from falling prey to scams.

Recognizing Phishing Attempts

• Be wary of calls demanding urgent payments or claiming lottery wins.
• Avoid providing personal information like Social Security numbers or bank details.

What to Avoid When Receiving Unknown Calls

• Never press buttons (e.g., “Press 1 to speak to an agent”)—this confirms your number is active.
• Don’t call back unknown numbers, especially if they originate from suspicious country codes.

Safety Tips for Unknown Calls

• Let unknown calls go to voicemail.
• Use reverse lookup services to verify unknown numbers before returning calls.
• Always research suspicious numbers online for scam reports.

Being cautious and aware prevents falling into the traps set by spammers and scammers.

11. Regularly Updating Apps and Firmware

Keeping your phone updated is crucial for maintaining security and enhancing spam-blocking features. Manufacturers and developers frequently release updates to address vulnerabilities and improve performance.

Ensuring the Latest Security Patches

• Android Users:
  1. Go to Settings > Software Update > Download and Install to check for updates.
  2. Enable Automatic Updates to keep your phone protected without manual intervention.
• iPhone Users:
  1. Open Settings > General > Software Update.
  2. Turn on Automatic Updates to install updates overnight when the device is charging.

Updating Spam Blocking Apps

• Regularly check for updates in the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
• Enable Auto-Update Apps to ensure your spam-blocking apps stay current with new databases and features.

Firmware Updates for Enhanced Call Blocking

Firmware updates often improve built-in spam-blocking tools, especially for premium models like Samsung Galaxy and iPhones. Check the manufacturer’s website or carrier updates for enhancements specific to your device.

Staying updated ensures you’re always equipped with the latest spam protection tools.

12. Filtering Contacts with VoIP and Cloud Services

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) and cloud-based services provide additional spam-blocking features that many traditional phone systems lack.

Google Voice for Number Filtering

• Google Voice offers powerful spam filtering features for both Android and iPhone users.
• Steps:
  1. Download the Google Voice App.
  2. Go to Settings > Filter Spam to enable automated detection.
  3. Block specific numbers directly from the app.

VoIP Services with Call Filtering Features

1. Grasshopper: Designed for businesses but useful for personal filtering.
2. OpenPhone: Allows custom call screening rules.
3. Nextiva: Offers AI-powered spam call detection.

Advantages of VoIP Filtering

• Spam calls can be automatically directed to voicemail without ringing.
• Cloud-based databases provide real-time updates for blocking emerging spam threats.
• Numbers can be pre-filtered before reaching your primary phone number.

These services are ideal for users looking for advanced spam-blocking options.

13. Leveraging AI and Smart Technology

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is now a game-changer in identifying and blocking spam calls. Both Android and iPhones have integrated AI tools to offer smarter call screening solutions.

AI Call Screening Features in Modern Devices

1. Google Assistant Call Screening (Android):
   • Automatically answers calls and asks for the purpose of the call.
   • Provides real-time transcripts, allowing you to decide whether to answer or block the call.
2. Apple’s Siri Suggestions (iPhone):
   • Suggests blocking numbers identified as spam through iOS notifications.
   • Works in tandem with third-party apps for enhanced detection.

Smart Spam Detection Tools

• Truecaller AI Features: Learns from user reports and AI algorithms to improve spam detection accuracy.
• Hiya AI-powered Blocking: Detects spoofed numbers and adapts based on call patterns.

Benefits of AI Integration

• Learns and adapts to new spam techniques.
• Reduces false positives by analyzing behavioral patterns.
• Enhances real-time call filtering to reduce interruptions.

Using AI-powered tools provides smarter, more accurate spam-blocking solutions.

14. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with multiple layers of protection, spam calls might still slip through. Here’s how to troubleshoot and fix common issues:

Why Are Calls Still Getting Through?

1. Outdated Databases: Update spam-blocking apps regularly.
2. Spoofed Numbers: Use AI tools like Truecaller to detect fake numbers.
3. Incorrect Settings: Double-check call blocking and DND settings to ensure they’re properly configured.

Fixing Misidentified Contacts

• Sometimes important calls get flagged as spam.
• To fix this:
  1. Add the number to your Contacts List.
  2. Mark the number as Not Spam in the blocking app.

Testing Call Blocking Features

• Perform test calls from alternate numbers to verify the effectiveness of the blocking tools.
• Adjust thresholds in third-party apps to avoid over-blocking.

Troubleshooting these issues ensures uninterrupted protection against spam calls.

15. Conclusion

Blocking spam calls on Android and iPhone devices is easier than ever, thanks to built-in features, third-party apps, carrier-based services, and AI-powered tools. Whether you prefer simple settings like Do Not Disturb or advanced filtering options through apps, there’s a solution tailored to your needs.

Stay proactive by keeping your apps and software updated, leveraging AI tools, and managing privacy settings to reduce exposure to scammers. With the tips and tricks in this guide, you’ll enjoy a spam-free calling experience and peace of mind.

FAQs

1. Can I block all unknown numbers on my phone?
Yes, both Android and iPhone allow you to block all unknown callers using built-in settings like Silence Unknown Callers (iPhone) and Spam Filter (Android).

2. What’s the best free app to block spam calls?
Truecaller and Hiya offer free plans with effective spam-blocking features. Paid plans provide even more customization options.

3. How can I stop robocalls permanently?
Using AI-powered apps like RoboKiller and enabling carrier-based solutions like T-Mobile Scam Shield can drastically reduce robocalls.

4. Are spam-blocking apps safe to use?
Most reputable spam-blocking apps are safe, but always review their privacy policies and permissions before downloading.

5. Does reporting spam calls actually help?
Yes, reporting spam calls helps build databases for carriers and apps, improving their ability to block future spam attempts.