The spam calls and unwanted commercials Calls from strange, commercial, or clearly fraudulent numbers have become commonplace. They ring when you're working, relaxing, or even driving, and often you don't even know who's on the other end or what their intentions are.
The good news is that nowadays your mobile phone can do much of the work for you. With modern phone features and carriers, it's possible. Automatically block suspicious calls with advanced settings on Android, iPhone and even on landline phones, minimizing inconvenience and the risk of fraud.
What are spam calls and why do you receive so many?
When we talk about telephone spam, we are referring to unsolicited mass calls These calls can have commercial, advertising, or outright criminal purposes. They usually originate from telemarketing centers, automated dialing systems, or organized groups attempting to steal personal data or money.
These calls can come from unknown, hidden, or internationally unfamiliar numbersoften with a structure that already raises suspicions. In many cases, there's a brief pause when you answer because an automated system is connecting you to an agent or checking if your number is active.
One of the most dangerous variants is the vishing, a type of telephone scam in which the scammer impersonates your bank, your operator, a public body or a well-known company to trick you into giving away passwords, SMS codes or bank details.
The reason you receive so many calls of this type is usually due to the distribution of your phone number through databasesYou may have given it away in a raffle, a dubious promotion, on online forms, or simply accepted excessive permissions when installing an app that shares your data with third parties.
Nor should we forget data leaks and sales: many companies collect user information and, sometimes, It ends up circulating through untrustworthy hands or even on the dark web, which multiplies the volume of spam you may receive.
How to recognize suspicious calls before answering
Stopping the problem starts with knowing how to identify suspicious calls. In practice, your phone and your own judgment can help you. detect clear signs of spam or scam calls even before saying "hello".
A first clue is that you notice a sudden increase in calls from numbers you don't have saved, especially if they keep changing but are similar to each other (same prefix, same length, same times).
Another fairly typical sign is the very short calls that hang up on the first ringThese are usually automated systems that check if the number exists or try to get you to call back, sometimes to a premium rate number.
Modern mobile phones, both Android and iPhone, incorporate databases of reported numbers. That's why you'll see alerts on your screen like this: "Possible spam", "Commercial call" or "Suspected scam"This information is gathered from reports that you and other users send when you mark a number as spam.
It's also wise to be cautious if, after signing up for a promotion, downloading an unfamiliar app, or registering on websites of dubious reputationYou start receiving persistent sales calls or surveys. It's very likely your number has been shared with marketing companies.
Built-in features for blocking spam on Android
Android has several layers of protection that you can combine to automatically block suspicious callsSome depend on Google, others on the manufacturer (Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei, etc.) and others on your carrier.
Google Caller ID and Spam Protection
To use it, your device must send Google data about calls from numbers that are not in your contactsIn return, the system compares the number with its databases and determines whether it belongs to a legitimate company or is spam, displaying the corresponding warning on the screen.
If you want to disable or adjust this protection, you can do so as follows:
- Open the Phone app on your Android device.
- Tap the three dot menu and enter Settings > Caller ID & Spam (or "Call and Spam Filter", depending on the model).
- Activate or deactivate the option «See caller ID and spam» as you prefer.
- Optionally, you can activate «Filter spam calls» so that suspicious calls don't even ring.
When you activate filtering, calls categorized as spam They do not generate a notification or leave a loss alert on the screen, although they do appear in the call history and, if they leave a message, in the voicemail.
Automatic call filtering and call assistance function
Some devices, such as Google's Pixel phones, incorporate a more advanced system of Automatic call filtering managed by the AssistantInstead of you answering the phone, the assistant answers first and asks the caller to identify themselves and explain the reason for the call.
While this is happening, you see on the screen a real-time transcription of what the other person saysThis way you can decide whether to accept the call, hang up, or mark it as spam without having to speak for even a second with the potential scammer or pushy salesperson.
On recent Pixel devices, this feature offers different levels of protection. On models like the Pixel 6 and later, the basic automatic filter is equivalent to a fairly high default level of protection against suspicious calls.
To configure these options, on Pixel devices you typically need to:
- Enter the app Phone Number and access the Settings.
- Find the section "Call Assistance" or "Call Filtering".
- Choose which types of calls you want to filter automatically (spam, unknown numbers, hidden numbers, etc.).
These tools combine caller ID, blocking, and a kind of virtual secretary who acts as a shield in response to calls that don't interest you.
Manual blocking and error notification in Android
Even with automatic filters, it's still useful to be able to Manually block a specific number that's bothering you or that you recognize as spam. From the call log, it's as simple as:
- Open the app Phone Number and go to the recent calls tab.
- Tap the call in question or press and hold it.
- Select "Block/Mark as spam" or a similar option.
When you do this, all future calls from that number are usually blocked, and furthermore, An anonymous report is sent to spam databaseshelping to protect other users.
If, on the other hand, you see that a call from someone you know is marked as spam by mistake, you can correct it from the call history:
- Open the recent calls in the Phone app.
- Select the call that is mislabeled.
- Tap on "It's not spam" to report the fault and unlock the number, if it was blocked.
This helps improve the system's accuracy and prevents legitimate contacts continue to appear as suspicious on your mobile.
If you want to learn more about how to manage and protect your records, consult the guide on advanced call history on Android.
Other layers: Samsung Smart Call and manufacturer filters
In addition to Google's system, many manufacturers integrate their own solutions. Samsung, for example, has Smart Call, a filter that identifies potentially fraudulent or commercial calls. and displays alerts before you pick up the phone.
On most Samsung models with One UI 1.1 or higher, you can configure it like this:
- Open the app Phone Number Of the device.
- Touch the three dots in the corner and enter Settings > Block numbers.
- Activate the option "Block calls from unknown numbers" or similar, depending on the version.
These systems draw from both their own databases and from thirdparty services (like Hiya) and They may flag some legitimate calls as fraudulent.depending on the region, the operator, or the system update.
Block suspicious calls on iPhone with iOS
Apple has also taken action against the avalanche of telephone spam by incorporating several features into iOS that allow Automatically silence, filter, and block suspicious calls before they bother us.
Mute unknown numbers on iPhone
One of the most useful tools in iOS is the option to silence calls from numbers you don't have saved in your address book. Thanks to that, you only hear calls from your contacts, numbers you've already spoken to, or senders you've recently exchanged messages with.
To activate it, follow these steps:
- Go to Settings of the iPhone.
- Enter the section Phone Number.
- Activate the option «Silence unknown numbers».
From that moment on, calls from unknown numbers stopped. directly to voicemail and they are recorded in the history, but they do not make a sound or vibrate, which greatly reduces daily background noise.
New call filter with reason request
In recent versions of iOS, Apple has gone a step further with a filtering system that, when a number not on your list calls, It asks the caller to identify themselves and explain the reason. before transferring the call.
What you see on the screen is a transcription of the message the person is leavingWith that information, you can decide whether to reply, ignore it, or block the number. Many spam operators hang up as soon as they hear the automated system, so they don't even bother you.
This function is located within the section of Settings > Phone, in the filters and blocking sectionThis is part of Apple's effort to strengthen privacy and further limit abusive commercial calls and vishing scams.
Manual blocking and use of apps like Truecaller or Hiya on iOS
If what you want is Block individual numbers that have already called you.You can easily do this from the Phone app:
- Opens Phone > Recent.
- Tap the information icon (i) next to the annoying number.
- Choose «Block this contact» so that it never sounds again.
In addition to native features, iOS allows integration spam identification and blocking apps such as Truecaller or HiyaOnce installed, you must go to Settings > Phone > Call blocking and identification and activate the app so that it can mark incoming calls as suspicious.
These applications manage enormous databases of phones reported worldwide and can Identify both national and international numbers associated with scams or aggressive telemarketing.improving the accuracy of the filtering.
Advanced filters via operator and short codes
Beyond what the mobile phone itself does, many operators offer additional services for Automatically block scam calls and robocallsIn some cases, you only need to enter a special code to activate the filter.
For example, in certain networks the code can be used # 662 # To activate a call blocker for calls identified as potential scams, preventing them from ringing or appearing in the call log. To deactivate it, a different code is usually used, such as # 632 #However, it's always a good idea to confirm with your company which codes are available.
There are also services such as Scam Shield, ActiveArmor, Call Filter or Call GuardianAccording to the operator, they analyze incoming calls on the network and classify them as "high risk", "likely spam" or similar, allowing them to be blocked en masse or sent to voicemail.
This type of solution is based on network technologies and machine learning that detect typical patterns of robocalls and massive fraud campaigns, constantly updating to stay ahead of scammers.
Restricting incoming calls and using Do Not Disturb mode
If you want to go a step further and have complete control over who can call you, you can use the options of incoming call restriction and "Do Not Disturb" mode both on Android and iPhone.
On any modern mobile phone, it's possible to block specific numbers from the history or even block all calls, But also Limit calls to your contacts, your favorites, or even no one during certain hoursThis last option is very useful at night or when you need maximum concentration.
Do Not Disturb mode allows you, for example, to only receive calls from certain contacts marked as important or from numbers that repeat the call several times in a short time (in case there is a real emergency).
On Android, you usually have to go to Settings > Sound & vibration > Do not disturb and configure who can call you and at what times. On iPhone, the usual path is Settings > Do Not Disturb or Focuswhere you can create profiles for work, rest, driving, etc.
By combining these options with spam filters, you can achieve Only the calls that truly interest you will ring in your pocket.while the rest are silenced, blocked, or sent to voicemail.
Third-party apps and blockers for mobile and landline phones
If the system and operator functions are not enough, you can resort to specialized spam-blocking applications such as Truecaller, Hiya, RoboKiller, or NomoroboIts strength lies in the size and updating of its databases.
These apps collect reports from millions of users, cross-reference information about active spam campaigns, and use advanced detection techniques to Identify numbers associated with robocalls, aggressive telemarketing, and fraud, blocking them or marking them on the screen.
In general, the process is similar on Android and iOS:
- Download and install download the app from Google Play or the App Store.
- Register and verify your number if necessary.
- Grant access permissions to the call log and contacts so the app can identify who is calling you.
- Activate the functions of automatic spam blocking, blocking of unknown numbers or customized blacklists according to your preferences.
In the case of Truecaller, for example, its ability to Show the caller's name even if you don't have it in your contacts.thanks to other users having tagged it previously.
For landlines, there are also physical devices such as CPR Call Blocker or Sentry blockers, which connect to the wall socket or terminal and automatically filter incoming calls based on lists of banned numbers or voice CAPTCHA-type verification systems.
Habits and legal measures to reduce telephone spam
Even with the best filtering technology, if your number is circulating too much, you'll still be a target. That's why adopting [a filtering strategy] is key. Best practices to protect your privacy and reduce exposure to spam.
To begin with, it is advisable that Think twice before giving your mobile number in sweepstakes, online forms, or promotions that you don't fully trust. Whenever possible, use a secondary number or services like virtual numbers for these types of uses.
It is equally important to review the permissions that applications request when you install themIf a flashlight app, for example, wants access to your contacts and calls, that's a bad sign. Limit those permissions in your system settings and uninstall anything you don't want.
In many countries there are records such as the Robinson List or other advertising exclusion lists where you can register your number to indicate that you do not wish to receive marketing calls. It's not foolproof, but it compels reputable companies to respect your decision.
Furthermore, telecommunications legislation usually includes your right not to receive unsolicited advertising, to have permitted hours respected You can demand that they delete your data if you no longer wish to be stored in their databases. In cases of repeated abuse, you can contact data protection or consumer protection agencies.
How to react to a suspicious call and strengthen your security
If, despite everything, you receive a call that seems strange, the wisest course of action is Do not return the call or follow the instructions of automated systems that ask you to press keys to stop receiving calls.
If someone presents themselves as your bank, your operator, or an institution and asks you sensitive data such as passwords, SMS codes, card numbers or photos of documents, hang up immediately. No reputable organization requests that type of information over the phone in that manner.
You can always hang up, look up the company's official number on their website, and Call yourself to verify if the call was legitimateThis way you ensure you're actually talking to the person you think you are and not an imposter.
If you detect a scam, it's a good idea Block the number, mark it as spam, and report it when appropriate. Report this to the appropriate authorities or your service provider. Your reports help identify patterns so that detection systems can be more effective.
Beyond calls, strengthen your digital security with antivirus and security suites for mobile that analyze suspicious apps, warn of data leaks, and help protect your identity against more complex attacks.
With the right combination of advanced settings, automatic filters, specialized apps, and good habits, the volume of spam calls is drastically reduced, and your number is no longer an easy target. Ultimately, it's about making your mobile phone a useful and secure tool again, where you only receive what you're truly interested in, and everything else is filtered out in the background.
