How to Block Spam Calls

Americans received an estimated 55 billion robocalls in 2024, averaging roughly 170 spam calls per person. While no single solution stops every unwanted call, combining multiple strategies can reduce spam calls by 90% or more.

Block Spam Calls on iPhone

Go to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers to send calls from numbers not in your contacts directly to voicemail. You can also block specific numbers by going to Recent Calls, tapping the (i) next to the number, and selecting "Block this Caller." iPhone's built-in spam detection works with your carrier to identify and label suspected spam.

Block Spam Calls on Android

Open the Phone app > Settings > Caller ID & spam and enable "Filter spam calls." This uses Google's database to automatically screen suspected spam. For Samsung devices, go to Phone app > Settings > Block numbers and enable "Block unknown/private numbers."

Block Spam Calls on Landline

Landlines are particularly vulnerable to robocalls. The most effective solution is a dedicated call-blocking device that maintains a database of known scam numbers and blocks them automatically. Popular options include the CPR V100K (100,000+ pre-loaded scam numbers) and the Panasonic call blocking system.

Register on the Do Not Call List

Visit donotcall.gov or call 1-888-382-1222 from the phone you want to register. It takes up to 31 days to take effect. This stops legitimate telemarketers but will not stop illegal scam calls.

Use Your Carrier's Spam Protection

T-Mobile Scam Shield (free): Automatically identifies and blocks scam calls. AT&T ActiveArmor (free tier available): Labels suspected spam and blocks fraud calls. Verizon Call Filter (free tier): Screens incoming calls and warns about spam.

Third-Party Apps

Nomorobo works for both mobile and VoIP landlines. Hiya provides real-time caller ID and spam detection. RoboKiller uses AI to answer and waste scammers' time, training its database with each blocked call.