Spam robocalls, aggressive telemarketing, and spoofed fraud numbers disrupt millions of smartphone users every day. Fortunately, both Apple iOS and Google Android now include powerful, intelligent call-screening technologies that identify suspected spam and silence unknown numbers before your phone ever rings.
Here is how to configure carrier-level and operating system filters to eliminate nuisance calls permanently.
Part 1: How to Block Spam Calls on iPhone (iOS)
Apple provides built-in automation to silence unknown numbers and integrate verified carrier spam databases.
Method 1: Enable 'Silence Unknown Callers'
This setting automatically mutes calls from numbers not saved in your Contacts, recent outgoing calls, or Siri Suggestions:
- Open Settings on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and tap Phone.
- Tap Silence Unknown Callers.
- Toggle the switch to On.
- When an unlisted number calls, your phone will not ring or vibrate. The call goes straight to Voicemail and appears in your Recents list quietly.
Method 2: Enable Carrier Call Screening Apps
- Major carriers provide free spam filtering apps (e.g., AT&T ActiveArmor, Verizon Call Filter, T-Mobile Scam Shield).
- Download your carrier's app.
- Open Settings > Phone > Call Blocking & Identification.
- Toggle the carrier's filter to On to allow real-time spam reputation lookups.
Part 2: How to Block Spam Calls on Android
Google Phone and Samsung One UI incorporate some of the best crowd-sourced spam protection algorithms available.
On Google Pixel and Stock Android (Google Phone App):
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap the three-dot menu in the top-right corner and choose Settings.
- Tap Caller ID & spam.
- Enable both See caller and spam ID and Filter spam calls.
- When Filter spam calls is enabled, suspected scam calls are silently blocked in the background without ringing your handset.
On Samsung Galaxy Devices (Smart Call):
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap More options (three dots) > Settings.
- Tap Caller ID and spam protection (powered by Hiya).
- Toggle the switch On.
- Select Block spam and scam calls and choose Block all spam and scam calls or Only block high-risk scam calls.
How to Register for the Official National Do Not Call Registry
If you live in the United States, United Kingdom, or Canada, register your personal phone number on the national government telemarketing exclusion lists:
- US: Visit DoNotCall.gov or call 1-888-382-1222.
- UK: Register with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) at tpsonline.org.uk.
- Canada: Visit lnnte-dncl.gc.ca.
Legitimate commercial telemarketers are legally prohibited from contacting registered numbers after 31 days.
