How to Stop Unwanted Phone Calls: Block Robocalls and Scam Calls Effectively

Unwanted phone calls are out of control — from robocalls selling products to scam calls trying to steal personal information. These calls are more than a nuisance; they’re an invasion of privacy. In fact, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) says robocalls are the number one consumer complaint. So how do you stop unwanted phone calls for good? Here’s a step-by-step guide using phone settings, call blockers, apps, and tools like the FTC Do Not Call registry.

✅ Use Built-In Smartphone Settings

iPhone Users: Silence Unknown Callers

Apple allows users to silence calls from unknown numbers. To enable this:

• Go to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers

• Calls from numbers not in your contacts will be sent directly to voicemail.

Android Users: Block Unknown and Private Numbers

Android phones have a similar feature:

• Go to Phone App > Settings > Block Numbers

• Toggle on “Block unknown/private numbers”

💡 Tip: You can also use Do Not Disturb mode and allow only contacts to call you.

✅ Block Specific Phone Numbers

If a spam or scam call gets through:

• Open your call history

• Tap on the number

• Select “Block” or “Add to block list”

This prevents repeat calls from the same number.

✅ Register Your Number on the Do Not Call List

In the U.S., register your number with the FTC’s National Do Not Call Registry to reduce telemarketing calls.

✅ You can still receive:

• Political calls

• Charities and surveys

• Calls from companies you’ve interacted with in the last 18 months

But scammers can still bypass the list, so additional tools are recommended.

✅ Use Carrier Call-Blocking Tools

Most major carriers offer free and premium call filtering services:

These services detect and block known scam or spam numbers in real time.

✅ Install Third-Party Call Blocking Apps

If carrier tools aren’t enough, try trusted apps like:

• Hiya

• RoboKiller

• YouMail

• Nomorobo

• TrueCaller

These apps label or block calls based on huge databases of known spammers. Some offer free basic versions, while advanced features require subscriptions.

✅ File a Complaint with the FCC

You can report spam and scam calls to the FCC Complaint Center. This helps the government take action against robocallers.

✅ Revoke Consent for Robocalls

If a company keeps calling you, you may have unknowingly given consent (usually buried in fine print). To stop this:

• Tell the caller you “revoke consent”

• Contact customer service and ask to be added to their Do Not Call list

✅ Never Engage with Spam Calls

Don’t press numbers or respond to prompts during spam calls. The FTC warns this could increase robocalls.

Also avoid saying “yes” if prompted with “Can you hear me?” — scammers might record and misuse your voice.

✅ International Do Not Call Lists

If you’re outside the U.S., check your country’s registry:

• Canada: National Do Not Call List

• UK: Telephone Preference Service

✅ Conclusion :

Stopping unwanted phone calls takes a mix of technology, awareness, and action. From tweaking your phone’s settings to registering with national services and using call-blocking apps, there are powerful tools at your disposal. Take control and protect yourself from scam calls today.

✅ Suggested FAQ Section :

Q1: How do I block robocalls on my phone?
You can block robocalls using built-in smartphone features, carrier services, or third-party apps like Hiya or RoboKiller.

Q2: Does the Do Not Call list really work?
Yes, it reduces legitimate telemarketing calls but does not stop scammers or illegal robocalls.

Q3: Are robocalls illegal?
Unsolicited robocalls trying to sell you something are illegal unless you gave written consent.

https://www.donotcall.gov/