Is your cell phone constantly ringing with spam calls? Fear not! Scambook has dug up some simple yet effective tips about how to block unwanted calls and prevent annoying telemarketing interruptions.
Although robocalls are technically illegal, there are a whole lot of unscrupulous companies out there who continue to target cell phone users. So read on and follow our tips for a spam-free cell phone.
4 Tips to Stop Unwanted Cell Phone Calls
1. Use Smartphone Apps to Block Callers
Use apps to ban unwanted numbers from calling. To do this for iPhone, however, you’ll have to jailbreak the device.
If you use an Android smartphone, there are a few popular (and free!) downloadable apps like Call Filter and DroidBlock that will enable you to block calls. Some Android phones also give you an option to send certain numbers directly to voicemail or enable call blocking from the settings menu.
If you’re a Blackberry user, try the Call Blocker Professional app or iBlocker Pro.
Unfortunately, options are slimmer for call blocker apps on Apple’s iPhone unless you’re willing to jailbreak it. Jailbreaking an iPhone enables you to get around Apple’s security protocols and install unauthorized apps, including call blockers like iBlacklist or Mobilelog.
However, jailbreaking an iPhone will void your warranty and can theoretically increase your security risk. Please use caution if you decide to take the jailbreak route.
2. Talk to Your Cell Phone Carrier
Many cell phone providers offer a range of services to block spam calls.
For example, Sprint customers can log into My Sprint and edit their account settings to manage blocked numbers.
AT&T offers “Smart Controls” — technically a parental control, and it costs $5 a month, but it’s effective.
No need to keep getting annoying spam calls — your carrier can help you out.
Verizon has a similar service, which will block five numbers at a time for no charge, or more numbers with more options for $5 a month.
T-Mobile, while not a purveyor of a call blocking service, is willing to help its customers ban certain numbers if they call 611 for Customer Service.
3. Targeting the Culprits with TrapCall
Willing to shell out a few bucks a month? If you don’t want to use your carrier’s call blocking services, TrapCall will block spammers as and reveal their phone numbers if they try to get sneaky and call from private lines.
For extra dollars, you can even take advantage of their other features, like voicemail transcription — a fun option for those who receive hilarious drunk messages from friends. But their basic service is well-reviewed and widely used. Visit www.trapcall.com to check it out.
4. Add Spam Numbers to Your Contacts and Use a Silent Ringtone
If you keep getting unwanted calls from the same number, this is one of the simplest ways to block them. First, save the number(s) in your Contacts List under “SPAM” (or a more colorful name of your choosing).
Then, install a silent ringtone on your device. Assign the ringtone to your SPAM contact. When the spammers call, you’re phone will “ring” without sound or vibration to interrupt you. You’ll still receive the call, but you’ll be none the wiser, and chances are the robot won’t be equipped to leave you a voicemail.
Don’t Stand for Cell Phone Spam
Try any of these effective ways to block robo-calls and you’ll experience fewer annoying, impersonal recorded messages.
As a consumer, you’re entitled to a life without spam calls according to the Federal Trade Commission (who’s been cracking down on spam texts, too!).
And if you receive high volumes of cell phone spam, don’t hesitate to report those businesses for their illegal call activities.
Have a favorite call blocking tool or strategy? Share it in the comments.
See Also
A Revolutionary New Way to Block Robocalls and Telemarketing Scams?
FTC Offers Consumers Protection from Telemarketer Fraud
Lawsuit Shuts Down More Annoying Robocall Telemarketing Scams
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