The FCC says that ‘robocalls’ are one of the top complaints filed by consumers (you), and tackling those is their top priority.

Tackling these calls is a big issue, as scammers can find one way or another to scam you. The most effective way to deal with the question of how to stop robocalls is to register your phone number(s) on the National Do Not Call Registry.

And guess what? 🤔 That’s not the only thing that you can do; there are a few other options.

📑 In this blog, we explain the different methods for blocking robocalls, how to identify them, and a few important tips for getting rid of such spam calls.

⌛ 30 SEC SUMMARY

• Registering your phone number on the National Do Not Call Registry helps filter out legitimate telemarketers.
• Utilizing your phone’s built-in call blocking features (like “Silence Unknown Callers” on iPhone or spam protection on Android) can significantly reduce robocalls.
• Third-party call-blocking apps such as Hiya, Truecaller, and Nomorobo offer advanced spam detection and blocking capabilities.
• Major US carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon offer robocall protection services, sometimes free and sometimes with premium options.
• It’s crucial not to answer calls from unknown numbers, report unwanted calls to the FCC/FTC, and be cautious about sharing your phone number to minimize robocalls.

How to identify robocalls?

Before you block robocalls, it helps to know what they look (sound) like. Most robocalls use an automated voice (often a robot-sounding one), and they typically start with a prerecorded message.

Many scammers use a technique called “spoofing” to fake a local or known CNAM to trick you into answering their call.

To identify robocalls, you need to look for these common signs:

• You hear silence for a few seconds before a voice begins.
• A robotic or pre-recorded message starts talking.
• The caller ID shows a local or unknown number you don’t recognize.
• The call is urgent, asking you to act fast (e.g., “your account is compromised”).
• The caller requests personal or payment information.

🔎 Looking for more insights about robocalls? Check out this blog: The State of Robocalls and How to Stop It.

4 Best ways to block robocalls

Blocking robocalls isn’t just about convenience; it’s about protecting your privacy and peace of mind. There are various methods for doing this.

Out of the many ways, here are the most effective methods for stopping these nuisance calls.

1. Register on the Do Not Disturb Call Registry

One of the simplest and most effective steps is to register your number with the National Do Not Call Registry. While it doesn’t block all robocalls, it filters out legitimate telemarketers who comply with the law. 

Here are two ways that you can use to do that:

I. How to report a robocall online at the National Do Not Call Registry

1. Visit “donotcall.gov.”
2. Click on “Register Your Phone.”
3. Enter your phone number and email address, and follow the instructions on the website
4. Confirm your registration through email confirmation.

II. How to report a robocall by phone

1. Call 1-888-382-1222 from the phone number you want to register.
2. Follow the prompts/instructions to register your number.

2. Use built-in call blocking features

Another good option to block robocalls on your phone is to use your phone’s built-in call-blocking feature. 

I. How to block spam calls on iPhone?

Apple offers a feature called “Silence Unknown Callers” that automatically silences calls from numbers not in your contacts. The call goes to voicemail and appears in your recent list.

1. Go to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers.
2. Toggle the feature on. This sends calls from unknown numbers directly to voicemail without notifying you. You can review these calls in the Recent Calls list.

You can also block individual callers on your iPhone. Go through these steps if you want to know how to block a number owned by an individual:

1. Open the Phone app and go to Recents.
2. Tap the ‘🛈 icon’ next to the number you want to block.
3. Scroll down and select Block Caller.

II. How to stop spam calls on Android?

Android devices vary by manufacturer, but most also have native features for call blocking and spam protection that you can use to stop robocalls. Here’s how you can use this feature.

General steps to activate built-in spam protection (may vary slightly):

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Tap the three-dot menu (⋮ ) and/or Settings.
3. Select Caller ID & Spam.
4. Toggle on Filter spam calls.

To block individual callers, follow these steps:

1. Go to your Recents.
2. Tap and hold (long press) the number.
3. Tap Block/report spam.

3. Utilize call blocking apps

Third-party apps offer advanced features like real-time spam detection, crowd-sourced call databases, and automatic call screening & blocking. These apps are especially useful if built-in tools aren’t enough.

Here are a few of them that you can use.

I. Hiya

Hiya is a highly rated call protection app known for its simplicity and effectiveness. It has partnered with major phone manufacturers and carriers to offer integrated spam call filtering.

Hiya works in the background and uses a vast spam database to warn users about risky calls in real-time. It’s one of the best spam call blocker apps for users looking for a straightforward “set it and forget it” solution.

Key features offered by Hiya

• Identifies scam and fraud numbers instantly.
• Blocks robocalls and suspected spam automatically.

How to stop robocallers with Hiya

1. Download the Hiya app (iOS or Android).
2. Open the app and follow the on-screen setup.
3. Grant necessary permissions (e.g., access to call logs).
4. Enable Auto-block spam calls.

II. Truecaller

Truecaller is a globally trusted caller ID and spam-blocking app with over 450 million active users. It detects spam by combining user reports, machine learning, and real-time data.

Truecaller is ideal for people who receive international calls or want to avoid all types of unwanted contact. Its large user community helps keep its spam list fresh and highly accurate, making it one of the best call blocker apps.

Key features offered by Truecaller

• Instantly shows caller identity, even if the number isn’t saved.
• Automatically blocks telemarketers, scams, and robocalls.

How to stop robocallers with Truecaller

1. Install Truecaller from the App Store or Google Play.
2. Sign up with your phone number.
3. Grant permissions and enable call filtering.
4. Toggle on Auto-block spam numbers.

III. Nomorobo

Nomorobo is one of the first robocall blocking tools. It was originally built for VoIP landlines. It has (in the past) won the FTC’s Robocall Challenge and now supports mobile devices, too. It is especially useful for users juggling personal and business calls.

It uses a “simultaneous ring” feature that screens incoming calls and lets only legitimate ones reach you. Nomorobo is a strong option if you’re looking for layered protection across devices.

Key features offered by Nomorobo

• Automatically blocks robocalls while letting important calls through.
• Supports both landline and mobile phones.

How to stop robocallers with Nomorobo

1. Download Nomorobo from your device’s app store.
2. Set up an account.
3. Link your phone number and enable call filtering.
4. Adjust settings for mobile or VoIP as needed.

4. Using carrier call blocking services

If you are in the United States, you have one more answer to the question of how to stop getting spam calls. Most major U.S. carriers offer their own robocall protection services (some free, others paid). These are deeply integrated into the network and often offer great first-line defense. 

So, let’s go through those:

I. AT&T Call Protect

AT&T Call Protect is a free service for AT&T wireless users that adds a strong layer of spam protection. It uses advanced analytics to block fraud calls and flag suspected spam.

The service also includes a mobile app for managing block settings and checking call history. Premium options like caller ID detection are also available in AT&T ActiveArmor.

Key features of AT&T Call Protect (AT&T ActiveArmor app):

• Automatically blocks high-risk calls and scams.
• Labels suspected spam and telemarketers with alerts.

How to enable/use AT&T Call Protect

1. Download the AT&T ActiveArmor app from the App Store or Play Store.
2. Log in using your AT&T mobile number.
3. Enable Auto-blocking and customize settings as per your needs.

II. T-Mobile Scam Shield

T-Mobile Scam Shield offers comprehensive protection with multiple features bundled into one app. It blocks scam calls and texts by identifying and blocking potential scam calls and SMS messages proactively and gives users full control over who can reach them. 

It’s perfect for users who want a mix of automation and manual control. The Scam Shield app also lets you create custom block lists and manage how your number is shared.

Key features offered by T-Mobile Scam Shield:

• Free Scam Block and Caller ID for all T-Mobile users.
• Option to request a free second number to keep your main line private.

How to enable/use T-Mobile Scam Shield

1. Dial #662# from your T-Mobile device. 
2. Download the free Scam Shield app and toggle on Scam Block. 
3. Log in to My T-Mobile or T-Life and then turn on Scam Block.

III. Verizon Call Filter

Verizon Call Filter protects users with intelligent spam detection and call management tools. It flags suspicious numbers and allows easy reporting of new ones.

The free version provides basic protection, while Call Filter Plus (paid) includes caller ID, spam lookups, and even reverse number searches.

Verizon Call Filter key features:

• Spam detection with risk-level indicators (e.g., “potential fraud”).
• Personal block list and call management dashboard.

How to enable/use Verizon Call Filter

1. Download and open the Verizon Call Filter App.
2. Tap “Get Started” and follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Navigate the Block tab > Spam filter > Configure settings.

Other important tips to block unwanted calls

Typical methods aside, there are a few other things that you need to take care of if you want to block unwanted calls on your phone. Some of the tips are:

• Don’t answer calls from an unknown number: If you receive a call from a number you don’t recognize, let it go to voicemail. Most robocalls won’t leave a message. If it’s important, the caller will definitely leave one.
• Report unwanted calls to FCC/FTC: The next tip is to be a good samaritan and help stop the cycle by reporting spam calls to fcc.gov/complaints or reportfraud.ftc.gov. This helps government agencies track and take down robocallers.
• Send SPAM Text Messages to 7726: If suspicious SMS messages are troubling you, just forward them to 7726, which spells “SPAM.” It notifies your carrier, which can investigate and block future messages.
• Change your directory listing: If your number is publicly listed online (e.g., in directories or social media), robocallers can easily access it. Consider making your number private or removing it from unnecessary platforms.
• Be cautious about sharing your number: Lastly, don’t share your number unless necessary, especially on sweepstakes, surveys, or unsecured websites.

Conclusion

It is a fact that robocalls can be more than a nuisance, and often, they’re a potential threat to your time, money, and security. And with a little effort and the right tools, you can learn ‘how to block robocalls.’ 

You can do that by using your phone’s built-in features, installing some robocall-blocking apps, registering for the National Do Not Call Registry, and being smart about where you share your number. 

And remember: never trust an unknown caller who demands urgency. Scammers thrive on panic. You’re smarter than that!

FAQs

Are robocalls illegal?

Robocalls are not inherently illegal, but their legality solely depends on their purpose and compliance with regulations. Information robocalls made for flight cancellations, appointment reminders, debt collection, and messages from charities or political campaigns are permitted under specific conditions.

However, Robocalls trying to sell products or services without written consent are unlawful and illegal.

What will happen if I answer a robocall?

If you answer a robocall, your number may get flagged as active, increasing the likelihood of receiving more robocalls in the future, which also increases the potential for scams.

Can I permanently stop robocalls?

No, you can’t permanently stop robocalls, but you can significantly reduce them by registering your number on the National Do Not Call Registry, using the in-built call-blocking feature on your phone, using third-party call filtering apps.