Registering on the Do Not Call List significantly reduces telemarketing and unwanted spam calls effectively.
Utilizing built-in phone features and apps enables efficient identification, blocking, and management of spam calls.
Reporting spam calls to authorities or using apps that block them strengthens protection and prevents future unwanted calls.
Spam calls are one of the most frustrating nuisances of modern life. From robocalls offering suspicious services to scammers pretending to be banks or government agencies, these calls can interrupt your day, waste your time, and even put you at risk of fraud.
However, there are effective ways to reduce and even stop the spam calls that clog your phone. Here's how to do it.
The first step should be to add your number to the National Do Not Call Registry. It’s a free list managed by the government that can help reduce telemarketing calls.
This can’t block all spam, especially scams from illegitimate sources, but it significantly reduces calls from legitimate telemarketers. To do so, point your browser to donotcall.gov and enter your phone number.
Once in the system, most legitimate telemarketers are required by law to stop calling within 31 days.
Most modern smartphones have built-in features to block unwanted calls:
Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers sends all calls from numbers not in your Contacts, Messages, or Mail to voicemail. You can also block individual numbers by tapping the number in your recent calls list and selecting Block this Caller.
The process is similar in several ways to that of Android phones. For example, with Samsung phones, go to Phone, then Settings, and find the option to Block numbers. Activate Block unknown callers.
Some phones also have a Caller ID and spam protection feature that will warn you about suspected spam calls.
Also Read: iPhone Now Screens Spam Calls: Focus on the People You Actually Care About
If built-in features aren't enough, consider the added protection of a call-blocking app. Popular ones include Hiya, Truecaller, RoboKiller, and Nomorobo. These maintain databases of known spam numbers and automatically block or flag suspicious calls.
Many allow users to report new spam numbers, which improves protection for all. Some are free, but most offer premium features, including advanced call screening.
One of the easiest and most overlooked methods involves not answering calls from numbers you don't recognize. When people answer, even to say ‘no,’ it merely tells spammers that the number is alive, and this might increase spam.
If you pick up the call by mistake, never disclose personal information about yourself, such as Social Security number, bank details, or passwords. No genuine organization would ever ask for sensitive information over an unsolicited phone call.
Many cellular carriers have their own spam-blocking tools. For example:
AT&T: Call Protect automatically blocks suspected spam and fraud calls.
Verizon: Provides Call Filter to detect spam and scam calls.
T-Mobile: Provides services like Scam ID and Scam Block. Many of these services come with apps, or they can be directly activated in account settings as an extra layer of protection.
Reporting spam calls is a way for authorities to take action and refine their databases. You can do this in the U.S. through the Federal Trade Commission at donotcall.gov, and also through many call-blocking apps, which contribute to community-driven defenses against unwanted calls.
Also Read: How to Fix Gmail Spam Filter Issues in 2025
While it's practically impossible to eliminate spam calls, this combination can significantly reduce the number. Adding your number to the Do Not Call list, using phone features, third-party applications, not engaging with the calls, and utilizing carrier services can help you regain your peace of mind.
Regularly blocking and reporting spam calls will make your phone much less attractive to these fraudulent callers over time. The steps mentioned in this article can offer you more privacy and greater control over who reaches you, allowing you to take a stand against spam calls.
1. What is the Do Not Call List, and how does it work?
The Do Not Call List provides the opportunity to register telephone numbers to reduce unsolicited telemarketing calls from legitimate companies, yet it may not stop all spam calls.
2. Can I stop the spam calls without blocking numbers?
Yes, methods like call screening, carrier spam filters, and apps reduce unwanted calls without necessarily blocking numbers on your phone.
3. Do call-blocking apps really work?
Well, Truecaller, Hiya, and RoboKiller apps block suspicious calls and identify known spam numbers with the facility to report new spam effectively.
4. How can I report spam calls in India?
In India, one can report spam calls to TRAI via SMS by sending START 0 to 1909 or through the official Do Not Disturb/NCPR portal.
5. Will blocking spam calls help protect me from scams?
While blocking and reducing spam calls help, never share personal information on unsolicited calls, as scammers will still attempt to commit fraud.