U, open the Phone app > Recents, tap the info icon next to the number, and then select “Block this Caller.”nwanted calls interrupt your day, put your privacy at risk, and can lead to costly scams. The good news is that you can take control. In this guide, we walk through how to block spam calls on iPhone, Android, and landlines, when to add a trusted call protection app, and the safer habits that keep you a step ahead.

Understanding Spam Calls

Spam calls include unsolicited promotions, impersonation scams, and robocalls that you didn’t request. Robocalls use automated dialers and recorded messages. Some automated calls are helpful, such as school notices or appointment reminders, but many are fraudulent or annoying.

Common tactics include impersonating banks, government agencies, or delivery firms; tech support schemes that demand urgent payment; warranty and debt-relief scams; investment and cryptocurrency scams; and phishing attempts that aim to capture one-time passcodes. Caller ID spoofing is widespread and can make a call appear to be local or branded, thereby earning your trust.

The impact ranges from constant interruptions to identity theft and financial loss. Recognizing these patterns helps you pause, verify, and avoid engaging.

Methods to Block Spam Calls on Smartphones

Begin with the tools built into your phone. They’re effective, easy to use, and free. If you continue to receive too many unwanted calls, consider adding a reputable third-party app for extra protection.

iPhone settings

  • Go to Settings > Phone and turn on Silence Unknown Callersyour iPhone, enable ‘Silence Unknown Callers’. Unknown numbers go to voicemail and appear in the Recents list.
  • Enable Silence Junk Callers if your carrier supports it.
  • Under Call Blocking & Identification, allow trusted caller ID apps to filter calls.
  • To block a specific number: open the Phone app > Recents, tap the info icon next to the number, then select Block this Caller.

Android settings (options vary by device)

  • Open the Phone app, tap the three dots > Settings > Caller ID & Spam.
  • Turn on Filter spam calls or Block spam and scam calls. On Google Pixel, set suspected spam to be silently declined.
  • To block a specific number, open Recents, touch and hold the number, then choose Block/report spam.
  • On Samsung phones, enable Smart Call in the Phone settings to identify and block suspected spam.

Make these features work for you

  • Activate your carrier’s caller ID and spam protection if available.
  • Use Silence Unknown Callers or similar features if you rarely receive important first‑time calls.
  • Keep your contacts updated so known callers ring through.
  • Check voicemail and Recents to catch legitimate calls that were filtered.
  • Report spam within the Phone app to improve future detection.

Using Third‑Party Apps for Spam Call Protection

When unwanted calls persist, a trusted call protection app can strengthen your defenses with real‑time intelligence and broader blocking options.

Look for these features

  • Automatic identification of high‑risk numbers and active scam campaigns.
  • Real‑time updates to catch fast‑changing spoofed and short‑lived numbers.
  • Community reporting that enhances accuracy.
  • Category‑based blocking (fraud, telemarketing, surveys).
  • Voicemail analysis to flag suspicious messages.
  • Privacy‑first design that does not upload your entire contacts list.

How to choose the right app

  • Review app store ratings, the privacy policy, and the developer’s track record in security.
  • Confirm integration with iPhone Call Blocking & Identification or Android Caller ID & Spam filtering.
  • Ensure frequent updates and clear controls to adjust sensitivity so important calls aren’t missed.

Set up for optimal protection

  • Install the app, grant caller ID and blocking permissions, and enable it in your phone’s call identification settings.
  • Start with recommended defaults, then refine:
    • Block known fraud aggressively.
    • Send unknown numbers to voicemail rather than blocking outright.
    • Turn on notifications for blocked calls so you can review them.
  • Check the app’s log periodically and add trusted numbers to an allow list.
  • Keep the app and your operating system updated for the latest protections.

Blocking Spam Calls on Landlines

Home phones can be protected with a mix of carrier services and call‑blocking devices. Many providers offer network‑level spam blocking or services similar to NoMoRobo for VoIP lines. Hardware call blockers connect between the wall jack and your phone to filter out known scam numbers, use challenge-response (press a key to pass through), or rely on approved lists, so only trusted callers ring.

Devices and services to consider

  • Standalone call blockers with large block and allow lists.
  • Carrier features such as anonymous call rejection and selective call rejection.
  • Voicemail screening that requires unknown callers to announce themselves before connecting.

Register with the National Do Not Call Registry

  • Visit donotcall.gov or call 1‑888‑382‑1222 from the number you want to register.
  • This reduces legitimate telemarketing but does not stop scammers or exempt organizations. Combine the registry with blocking tools for the best results.

Safer habits on landlines

  • Be skeptical of urgent threats, prizes, or requests for payment via gift cards or wire transfers.
  • Do not share verification codes or sensitive information by phone.
  • Let unknown numbers go to voicemail and return calls using the official number from a company’s website or your account statement.
  • Report unwanted calls to the FTC to support enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I block all unknown numbers?

Yes. On an iPhone, enable Silence Unknown Callers. On many Android phones, turn on Filter spam calls or a similar setting. This may send legitimate first‑time callers to voicemail, so review missed calls and messages.

Will blocking stop spoofed numbers?

Spoofing is challenging to eliminate entirely. Enabling carrier spam protection, your phone’s spam filters, and a reputable third‑party app can significantly reduce spoofed scam calls.

Should I press a number to opt out?

No. Interacting can confirm that your number is active, but it may also lead to more spam. Block and report instead.

What if important calls are being blocked?

Lower the sensitivity of your spam filter, add important numbers to contacts, and review your voicemail and call logs. Set a list of trusted numbers in your blocking app or device.

Is the Do Not Call Registry enough?

It helps with legitimate telemarketers but does not stop scammers. Use it alongside phone settings, carrier tools, and a call protection app for comprehensive coverage.

Final thoughts

Start protecting your phone today: turn on spam filtering, silence unknown callers, and consider a trusted call protection app if spam calls keep coming. Keep your contacts updated, review voicemail regularly, and report suspicious calls to help stop scams for everyone.

With the right tools and habits, you can cut through the noise and keep your phone and your peace of mind safe.