[Smart Phone Features] Block Spam Calls on Your iPhone or Android

Alert:

Spam calls and robocalls are a persistent nuisance and top consumer complaint, with millions of reports filed annually.

Impact:

These unwanted calls can lead to privacy invasion, scams, and identity theft, making it crucial to take steps to protect your personal information and avoid disruption.

Action:

1. Don't Answer Unknown Calls: Avoid picking up calls from unknown numbers to reduce the risk of falling for scams or providing personal information unintentionally.
2. Beware of Phone Spoofing: Scammers often disguise their numbers to appear local. Always verify the caller's authenticity independently.
3. Report Suspicious Calls: If a call seems fraudulent, hang up and report it to the FCC. Legitimate entities will not mind you verifying their identity.
4. Use Call Blocking Tools: Explore built-in phone features or third-party apps to block unwanted calls.
   • iPhone Users: Navigate to the Settings app, tap on Phone, and enable the “Silence Unknown Callers” feature to send calls from unknown numbers directly to voicemail.
   • Android Users: Ensure “Caller ID and Spam Protection” is enabled by going to Settings, then Spam and Call Screen. Toggle on both the See Caller & Spam ID and Filter Spam Calls settings.
5. Register on the Do Not Call List: Add your number to the Federal Trade Commission’s Do Not Call List to deter legitimate telemarketers.
6. Protect Personal Information: Never share personally identifiable information (PII) over the phone unless you are certain of the caller's identity.
7. Consider Virtual Numbers: Use services like Surfshark Alternative Number to create a virtual phone number to protect your real number from robocalls and scams.

Implementing these steps will help you regain control over your phone and maintain your privacy against intrusive spam calls. Stay informed and vigilant to outsmart phone spammers.