How to Block Spam Calls Once and For All
Spam calls have become a major headache for millions of people, and the problem only seems to be getting worse. Each day, countless unwanted calls flood our phones, often with aggressive robocalls or deceptive scams that can trick even the most careful person. It’s not just about the annoyance — these calls can lead to serious financial and personal security risks if you fall victim to a scam. Whether it’s a fake car warranty, a threatening call claiming your account is locked, or an impersonation of a government agency like Medicare, these calls are designed to catch you off guard and push you into making mistakes.
Fortunately, you don’t have to accept this as your new normal. With the right tools and a little know-how, you can cut down on spam calls and protect yourself and your loved ones. At TechPals, we’ve helped thousands of people do exactly that, guiding them through simple settings and tools that make phones safer and less stressful to use. If you’re searching for “Tech Pals” or found us at techpals.org, welcome — we’re here to help.
Why Are Spam Calls So Common?
Spam calls are so widespread because scammers and telemarketers find it profitable. They use sophisticated technology to dial millions of numbers every day, hoping to catch even a tiny fraction of people who will respond. Here are a few reasons spam calls keep coming:
Automated Dialers: Robocallers use software to dial numbers rapidly, sometimes randomly generating them. If you answer, your number becomes “active” and valuable.
Data Sales: Your phone number may be shared or sold through data breaches, marketing lists, or even from companies you once did business with.
Spoofing Techniques: Scammers disguise their numbers to look local or familiar — sometimes even mimicking real businesses to trick you.
Increasing Sophistication: Scammers now use scripts and technology that make calls sound urgent, legitimate, and personal.
Understanding the problem is the first step toward regaining control.
Use Your Phone’s Built-In Spam Protection Features
Your smartphone comes with powerful tools designed to help you avoid unwanted calls. These built-in features are free and easy to use.
For iPhone Users
Apple’s Silence Unknown Callers feature is a simple way to quiet calls from unknown numbers:
Open Settings on your iPhone
Tap Phone
Find and select Silence Unknown Callers
Toggle it On
With this on, calls from numbers not saved in your contacts won’t ring your phone. Instead, they’ll be sent straight to voicemail, and you can review missed calls at any time. This method works well if you typically get calls from people you know, but keep in mind it may block some legitimate calls from new contacts, like doctors or delivery services.
For Android Users
Android phones come in many models, so the exact steps vary, but here’s the general approach:
Open the Phone app
Tap the three-dot menu (usually top-right)
Tap Settings
Go to Blocked numbers or Caller ID & Spam
Enable options like Block unknown callers or Filter spam calls
Some Android phones also feature Google’s spam detection, which warns you about suspected spam and offers the choice to block those numbers.
If you’re unsure how to find these settings on your specific phone, TechPals is always ready to help. Visit techpals.org for personalized assistance.
Use Your Carrier’s Spam Protection Services
Beyond your phone, your mobile carrier can help filter out spam calls before they even reach you. Here are some common services from major providers:
AT&T Call Protect: Blocks known fraud calls and warns about potential spam. It’s free for many customers and easy to activate via an app.
Verizon Call Filter: Identifies and blocks spam calls automatically, with options for customized blocking and caller reporting.
T-Mobile Scam Shield: Offers scam identification and blocking, plus privacy features like a proxy number to protect your real number.
Activating these services often requires downloading the carrier’s app or enabling the feature in your account settings. Since every carrier’s system is a little different, TechPals can walk you through turning these on, no matter your provider.
Don’t Interact With Spam Callers
If you answer a spam call by accident, the safest move is to hang up immediately. Here’s why:
Avoid Pressing Numbers: Sometimes scammers ask you to press a number to “remove yourself” from their list. Doing this can actually confirm your number is active, increasing future spam.
Don’t Share Personal Info: Never give out sensitive information like your Social Security number, bank details, or passwords over the phone — no matter how convincing the caller sounds.
Be Skeptical of Urgency: Scammers use fear and pressure to get you to act fast. If someone says your account is locked or your family member is in trouble, hang up and call trusted contacts directly.
Download a Call-Blocking App
In addition to phone and carrier features, you can install apps dedicated to stopping spam calls. These apps have huge databases of known scam numbers and can block or label calls in real-time.
Popular options include:
Hiya: Identifies spam and scam calls and lets you block them.
RoboKiller: Automatically answers spam calls with prerecorded messages to waste scammers’ time.
Truecaller: Offers caller ID and spam blocking based on user reports.
Nomorobo: Provides real-time robocall blocking and works on smartphones and landlines.
Most of these apps offer free basic versions and premium features for more control. Choosing the right app can be confusing — TechPals can help you pick and set it up, making sure it works well with your phone.
Report Spam Calls to Help Everyone
By reporting spam numbers, you contribute to efforts to block them for others. Here’s how you can report:
Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Use their complaint site at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Your Carrier: Forward spam text messages to 7726 (“SPAM”) and report calls via carrier tools.
Call-Blocking Apps: Most apps have built-in reporting features.
Although it may not stop the spammer immediately, your reports help improve blocking technology over time.
Extra Tips to Stay Ahead of Spam Calls
Don’t Post Your Number Publicly: Keep your number off social media and online directories when possible.
Avoid Sharing Your Number: Be cautious about giving your number to unknown businesses or on websites.
Use a Second Phone Number: Services like Google Voice let you have an alternate number for online sign-ups or less-trusted contacts.
Educate Your Family: Many scams target older adults specifically. Share tips with relatives to help keep them safe.
What If Spam Calls Keep Coming?
If you’ve done all the above and spam calls persist, you have a few more options:
Change Your Phone Number: This is a last resort but can reset your call experience.
Whitelist Calls: Some apps and phones allow you to block all calls except those on your contacts list.
Disable Voicemail: Scammers often leave messages hoping you’ll call back. Turning voicemail off or switching to a service like Google Voice can reduce callbacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will blocking unknown callers cause me to miss important calls?
There is a chance, especially from new contacts. However, missed calls and voicemails can alert you to calls you want to return. You can always disable blocking temporarily if expecting an important call.
Can I block spam texts too?
Yes! Both iPhone and Android include spam filtering for messages, and there are also apps specialized for this.
How can I help a family member set this up?
TechPals specializes in helping families with phone safety. Whether remote or in person, we guide you through setup and ongoing questions.
Beyond Blocking: Building Long-Term Phone Security and Confidence
Blocking spam calls is a crucial first step toward reclaiming your phone’s peace and privacy, but it’s just one part of a broader strategy to protect yourself from scams and unwanted interruptions. At TechPals, we believe that understanding your device, staying informed about new threats, and adopting a few ongoing habits will help you feel confident and secure with your technology — now and in the future.
Here are some important tips and real-world examples to help you go beyond just blocking calls and truly own your tech experience.
Keep Your Phone Software Updated
It might seem obvious, but keeping your phone’s operating system and apps updated is one of the best ways to protect yourself. Updates often include security patches that close vulnerabilities scammers or hackers might try to exploit.
Real-world example: A TechPals user named Linda was constantly frustrated with suspicious pop-ups and strange messages on her phone. When we checked, her phone was running an outdated version of Android that lacked important security fixes. After updating her phone and apps, the suspicious activity dropped dramatically — and Linda felt much safer using her device.
How to stay on top of updates:
On iPhone, go to Settings > General > Software Update to check for iOS updates. Enable automatic updates if you want the phone to update overnight.
On Android, go to Settings > System > Advanced > System update (this path can vary) and check for updates.
Update your apps regularly through the App Store or Google Play Store.
If you need help managing updates, TechPals can guide you step-by-step.
Use Strong Passwords and Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Many scams try to access your accounts by guessing or stealing passwords. Using strong, unique passwords — and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible — makes it much harder for scammers to get in.
Strong passwords are:
At least 12 characters long
A mix of letters, numbers, and symbols
Not based on easily guessable info (like birthdays or pet names)
Two-factor authentication adds a second step to log in, such as a text message code or an app notification.
Real-world example: After a TechPals user named Mike enabled 2FA on his email and banking accounts, he noticed several login attempts he didn’t recognize — but they were blocked. This gave Mike peace of mind knowing his accounts were more secure.
Recognize Common Scam Techniques and Stay Informed
Scammers constantly change their tactics, but many scams follow familiar patterns. Staying informed about the latest scams helps you spot red flags quickly.
Common scam types to watch for:
Impersonation scams: Someone claiming to be from the IRS, Medicare, Social Security, or a utility company demanding payment.
Tech support scams: A caller or pop-up warning that your computer or phone has a virus and offering to fix it remotely (for a fee).
Family emergency scams: Calls or messages claiming a loved one is in trouble and needs money urgently.
Prize scams: Notifications that you’ve won a prize or lottery but must pay fees to claim it.
Tip: Never give out personal or financial information over the phone unless you initiated the call to a verified number.
TechPals regularly updates our community on new scam trends and safety tips. Visit techpals.org for the latest info.
Use Privacy Settings and Manage App Permissions
Your phone has privacy settings that control what apps can access, such as your location, contacts, microphone, and camera. Reviewing and adjusting these settings helps keep your information safe.
Here’s how to manage app permissions:
On iPhone: Go to Settings > Privacy and review each category (Location Services, Microphone, Contacts, etc.). You can enable or disable access app-by-app.
On Android: Go to Settings > Privacy > Permission Manager to see which apps have access to sensitive features.
Why this matters: Some spam or scam calls may be linked to malicious apps or spyware. Regularly reviewing app permissions can help prevent unauthorized data access.
Be Careful With Links and Attachments
Scammers often send text messages or emails with links that install malware or lead to fake websites designed to steal information.
Best practices:
Don’t click links in texts or emails unless you’re sure of the sender.
Look for signs of phishing, such as misspelled URLs, urgent language, or requests for passwords.
When in doubt, type the website address yourself into a browser instead of clicking a link.
TechPals can help you spot suspicious messages and explain how to stay safe online.
Consider Using a Password Manager
Keeping track of many complex passwords can be tricky. Password managers are apps that securely store your passwords and generate strong ones when needed.
Benefits:
Automatically fill in passwords on websites and apps
Create and remember unique passwords for every account
Protect your login info behind one strong master password
Popular options include LastPass, 1Password, and Dashlane. TechPals can help you pick and set up a password manager that fits your needs.
Educate and Protect Your Family and Friends
Spam and scams don’t just target individuals — entire families can be at risk. Older adults, in particular, may be targeted more aggressively because scammers assume they might be less familiar with technology.
Sharing what you’ve learned with family and friends can be one of the most powerful ways to protect your community. Help your loved ones:
Set up call-blocking features
Understand common scams
Use privacy settings on their devices
Recognize suspicious messages and calls
TechPals offers family-friendly support options so you can assist relatives even from afar.
Stay Calm and Reach Out for Help When Needed
Technology and scams can be confusing and overwhelming. It’s normal to feel frustrated or unsure — and you don’t have to figure it out alone.
That’s why TechPals exists: to be your friendly guide through the noise, with patient, clear advice tailored to your pace and comfort level.
If you ever get a suspicious call, a confusing message, or just want to check if something seems off, reach out. We’re available 24/7 to answer questions, walk you through settings, and provide peace of mind.
Real Stories from TechPals Users
Jane’s Story: Jane, a retired teacher, was getting dozens of robocalls daily. She was overwhelmed and started ignoring all calls, worried she’d miss something important. After working with TechPals to enable her iPhone’s silence feature and set up a call-blocking app, the calls dropped to nearly zero. Jane now feels confident answering her phone and even taught her neighbor how to set up similar protections.
Robert’s Story: Robert’s elderly mother was targeted by a scammer pretending to be from Medicare. Luckily, Robert recognized the signs and called TechPals right away. Together, we helped him set up call blocking on her phone and taught her how to spot scams. Robert feels much better knowing his mom has support and protection.
Your Next Steps with TechPals
Taking control of your phone’s security and spam protection doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. With the right tools, some simple habits, and a helping hand from TechPals, you can:
Stop worrying about unwanted calls interrupting your day
Avoid falling for scams that threaten your privacy and money
Feel empowered using your smartphone or tablet safely
Help protect the people you care about
Visit techpals.org to explore our guides, get personalized support, and join a community focused on making technology easier and safer for everyone.
Remember, whether you search for “Tech Pals” or “TechPals,” it’s the same team ready to help you. Let us be your partner in navigating today’s technology with confidence and calm.Let TechPals Help You Regain Control
At TechPals, our mission is to make technology less frustrating and more empowering for everyone. We offer friendly, expert tech support for spam blocking and much more — all at your own pace and comfort level.
No matter if you’re dealing with robocalls, confusing phone settings, or just want peace of mind, we’re here 24/7 to help.
Visit techpals.org and discover how to protect yourself and your loved ones today.
Whether you search for “TechPals” or “Tech Pals,” you’ll find clear, practical help — and real people ready to guide you through the maze of modern technology.
Don’t let spam calls control your day. Take back your phone with TechPals.
