How to Block Spam Calls

Say Goodbye to Annoying Spam Calls With These Easy Tips

Hello Challenger, are you tired of constantly receiving spam calls and unsolicited messages on your phone? You are not alone. Spam calls can be frustrating, time-consuming, and even dangerous, as scammers are becoming more sophisticated in their approach. However, with the right tools and knowledge, you can take control of your phone and block spam calls for good. In this article, we will show you how.

Introduction

Every day, millions of people globally receive unwanted calls on their phones. These calls can come from telemarketers, scam artists, or even robots. The good news is that blocking spam calls is easier than ever before, thanks to advances in technology. Before we dive into the details of how to block spam calls, let’s take a look at why they are so prevalent in the first place.

Why Are Spam Calls on the Rise?

There are several reasons why spam calls are becoming more common than ever before. These include:

Reasons for Increase in Spam Calls Description
Advances in Technology Spammers are now able to use technology to make the calls appear to be coming from legitimate sources.
Cheap International Calls Scammers can make cheap international calls, making it easier for them to target victims.
Availability of Personal Data Scammers can obtain personal data through hacking, phishing scams, or purchasing the information illegally.
Non-Existent Enforcement Law enforcement agencies are often unable to keep up with the sheer amount of spam calls being made.

Now that we know why spam calls are on the rise let’s take a look at how you can block them.

How to Block Spam Calls

There are several methods you can use to block spam calls on your phone.

Method 1: Use Your Phone’s Built-In Features

Many smartphone manufacturers provide built-in features to block unwanted calls. These features may vary depending on the phone you have. Here’s how to use phone’s built-in features to block spam calls:

Step 1: Go to “Settings” and select “Phone”.

Step 2: Look for options such as “call blocking” or “blocked contacts.”

Step 3: Add the phone number you wish to block.

Step 4: Save the changes, and you’re done.

Method 2: Use Third-Party Apps

Another way to block spam calls is to use third-party apps. These apps can be downloaded from Google Play Store, Apple Store or other stores. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Open your app store and search for “spam call blocker.”

Step 2: Select an app that has high ratings and respectable reviews.

Step 3: Download and install the app on your phone.

Step 4: Follow the prompts to allow the app to access your phone’s features.

Method 3: Use Carrier Services

Most carriers provide spam call blocking services for their customers. However, these services may come with some extra charges. Here’s how to use carrier services to block spam calls:

Step 1: Contact your carrier’s customer service.

Step 2: Request for spam call blocking service

Step 3: Follow the prompts to configure the service on your phone.

Method 4: Do Not Answer

Sometimes, the simplest solution is to not answer calls from unknown or private numbers. If the call is important, the person will leave a message, and you can return the call at your convenience.

Method 5: Join the Do Not Call Registry

You can join the National Do Not Call Registry to reduce the number of unsolicited sales calls you receive. It is free to join, and you can register your phone number online. This registry is maintained by the Federal Trade Commission, and once you register your number, telemarketers have up to 31 days to stop calling you.

Method 6: Use Call Screening

Some smartphones have call screening capabilities that allow you to screen the calls before accepting or rejecting them. You can use this feature to block any incoming calls from numbers that are not on your contact list.

Method 7: Use Call Tracing

Call tracing is a method wherein you can trace back the caller by accessing the phone numbers that have been calling you. This can be done by contacting your carrier’s customer service and asking for assistance in tracing back the number.

FAQs

Q1. Is it legal to block spam calls?

Yes, it is legal to block spam calls. You are not obligated to answer every call that comes through on your phone.

Q2. Can scammers still leave a message if I have blocked their number?

No, if you have blocked the number, the person or company will not be able to leave a message. However, if the call is important, they can always leave a message via email, text or social media.

Q3. Can I block robocalls from calling me?

Yes, you can block robocalls by following the same methods as you would to block spam calls. Most phone manufacturers have a built-in feature that allows you to block robocalls; alternatively, you can also use third-party apps or carrier services.

Q4. Can a call blocker app slow down my phone?

No, a call blocker app should not slow down your phone. However, it is always better to choose a credible app with good ratings and reviews to ensure that it performs its intended function without slowing down your phone.

Q5. Can I block spam calls on a landline?

Yes, some phones specifically manufactured for home or office lines come with built-in spam call blocking features. Less technological solutions can also be employed such as caller ID notification, a do not call registry, or call trace services which can all help identify and block spam calls.

Q6. How to block spoof calls?

Spoof calls are calls that come from numbers that are not real or have been faked in some way. You can’t block spoof calls directly, but you can prevent them by following the same methods as for block spam calls such as using your phone’s built-in features, third-party apps and carrier services.

Q7. Can I block spam calls from specific countries?

Yes, you can use third-party apps or carrier services to check the origin of any specific numbers that call you, and block calls from particular countries.

Q8. Can I report spam calls to authorities?

Yes, you can report any spam calls to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). You can also report scams, phishing, and identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Q9. Can I block spam messages?

Yes, you can block spam messages by following the same methods as you would to block spam calls.

Q10. Can I block specific people from calling me?

Yes, you can use your phone’s built-in features, third-party apps or carrier services to block specific people from calling you.

Q11. Can spam calls hurt my phone?

No, spam calls cannot harm your phone. However, scammers can use the information they obtain from you for nefarious purposes, and you may incur charges on your phone bill if you answer unwanted calls.

Q12. Will my current phone plan block spam calls by default?

Some carriers provide their subscribers with default spam call blocking services; however, this varies depending on your carrier and phone plan. The best way to block spam calls is to follow the methods outlined in this article.

Q13. Can I block spam calls from a blocked number?

Yes, if you are still receiving spam calls from a previously blocked number, you can block them again by going to the blocked numbers list and adding the number again.

Conclusion

There you have it – 7 different methods to block spam calls effectively. Remember, spam calls can be avoided by using your phone’s built-in features, third-party apps, or carrier services. You can also use the National Do Not Call Registry, and refrain from answering calls from unknown numbers. By following these methods, you can take control of your phone and make sure you receive only the calls that matter to you.

So, what are you waiting for? Start blocking those spam calls today and enjoy peace of mind!

Disclaimer

The tips outlined in this article are provided for informational purposes only. The author and publishers of this article are not responsible for any adverse consequences that may result from following the suggestions in this article. Users should exercise caution when using any of these tips and consult with expert advice if necessary.