Spam calls have become a common nuisance in our daily lives. They can be irritating, time-wasting, and sometimes even fraudulent. Fortunately, there are several ways to block spam calls and protect yourself from their unwanted interruptions. In this article, we’ll discuss four effective methods on how to block spam calls.
Method 1: Use Your Phone’s Built-in Call Blocking Feature
Most smartphones nowadays have a built-in call blocking feature that can help you block spam calls. To activate this feature, you need to follow these steps:
- Open your phone’s dialer app.
- Go to your recent call list and select the spam number you want to block.
- Tap the “Block” or “Block Caller” option.
- If your phone has a call blocking setting, you can add the number to your block list from there.
By using this feature, you can block unwanted calls from known spam numbers. However, this method is not effective for blocking new spam numbers that are not yet in your phone’s contact list.
Method 2: Install a Third-party Call Blocking App
Another effective way to block spam calls is to install a third-party call blocking app. These apps can identify and block spam calls based on their database of known spam numbers. Some of the popular call blocking apps are Truecaller, Hiya, and Mr. Number.
To use a call blocking app, you need to download and install it on your phone. Once installed, the app will automatically identify spam calls and block them. Some apps also allow you to customize your call blocking settings, such as blocking all calls from a specific area code or country.
One thing to keep in mind is that some call blocking apps may ask for access to your contacts and other personal information. So, it’s essential to review the app’s privacy policy before installing it.
Method 3: Register with the National Do Not Call Registry
The National Do Not Call Registry is a free service provided by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) that allows you to reduce unwanted telemarketing calls. By registering your phone number with the registry, telemarketers are required to stop calling you unless you have given them prior consent.
To register your phone number with the National Do Not Call Registry, you need to follow these steps:
- Go to the registry’s website at www.donotcall.gov.
- Click on the “Register Your Phone” button.
- Enter your phone number and email address.
- Verify your email address by clicking on the link sent to your email.
- Once verified, your phone number will be added to the registry.
It’s important to note that the National Do Not Call Registry does not block all telemarketing calls. For example, political organizations, charities, and telephone surveyors are still allowed to call you. However, if you continue to receive unwanted telemarketing calls after registering, you can file a complaint with the FTC.
Method 4: Use a Virtual Phone System
A virtual phone system is another effective way to block spam calls. These systems allow you to create a separate phone number that can be used for business or personal purposes. By using a virtual phone number, you can keep your real phone number private and only share it with trusted contacts.
Virtual phone systems also come with advanced call blocking features that can help you block unwanted calls. Some of these features include:
- Call screening: This feature allows you to hear the caller’s name before answering the call.
- Do Not Disturb: This feature blocks all incoming calls except for calls from selected contacts.
- Call forwarding: This feature allows you to forward calls from your virtual phone number to your real phone number.
By using a virtual phone system, you can reduce the number of spam calls you receive on your real phone number. However, virtual phone systems usually require a monthly subscription fee.
Conclusion
Spam calls can be a nuisance, but there are several ways on how to block spam calls. By using your phone’s built-in call blocking feature, installing a third-party call blocking app, registering with the National Do Not Call Registry, or using a virtual phone system, you can protect yourself from unwanted interruptions and potential fraud.
It’s important to note that these methods may not be foolproof, and some spam callers may still find ways to bypass them. Therefore, it’s always essential to stay vigilant and never give out personal information to unknown callers.
If you continue to receive unwanted spam calls, you can report them to the FTC, which may take action against the spammers. With the right tools and awareness, you can take control of your phone calls and avoid the hassle of spam calls.