Answering phone calls can be anxiety-inducing, especially when you receive too many robocalls. Robocalls are tools for scamming and other fraudulent activities. Whether you use a high-end orbudget Android phone, you’re able to combat robocalls by turning on the built-in spam filter or using third-party apps. This guide shows you all the ways you can eliminate pesky robocalls.

What is a robocall?

A robocall is an automated phone call with a pre-recorded message. It uses an autodialer to call and deliver such messages to thousands of people. Robocalls are typically used in telemarketing, political campaigns, and public service announcements. They’re also used for scams and solicitations.

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How to block robocalls on Android

While we use the Google Phone app for the following steps, the process is similar for other dialers.

Block calls from the Recent section

You can block individual numbers from the Phone app. Here’s how:

1.Launch thePhoneapp.

2.TapRecent.

3.Press and hold the name or phone number.

4.SelectBlock/report.

5.SelectReport call as spam.

6.TapBlock.

Filter spam calls

1.Open thePhoneapp.

2.Tap thethree-dot menuin the upper-right corner.

3.SelectSettings.

4.TapCaller ID & Spam.

5.Toggle onFilter spam calls.

Use Call Screen on supported Pixel devices

TheCall Screenfeature, which is exclusive to Google Pixel phones, offers some respite from robocalls. It lets Google Assistant ask the voice on the other end to state the reason for their call. you’re able to pick up the call if you don’t think it’s spam.

Here’s how to switch on Call Screen:

2.SelectSettings.

3.TapSpam and Call Screen.

4.Select all options.

5.TapAutomatically screen. Decline robocalls.

How to block robocalls on iPhone

Here’s how to block calls on an iPhone:

2.SelectRecents.

3.Tap theinfo iconbeside the number you want to block.

4.SelectBlock Caller.

5.TapBlock Contact.

Register on the National Do Not Call Registry

You can choose not to receive telemarketing calls in the US by registering your number on the FTC’s Do Not Call Registry. Here’s how:

1.Visit the websitedonotcall.gov.

2.ClickRegister.

3.SelectRegister Here.

4.Type your phone number and email address.

5.ClickRegister.

6.Open the email sent to you and click the verification link.

Use third-party apps to block robocalls

You can opt for third-party apps if you’re looking for advanced spam filtering. Here are some of the most popular options:

Truecaller for screening calls

Truecaller is one of the oldest spam detection apps in the Play Store. It identifies callers and blocks scammers. The paid version features a virtual assistant and screening tools.

RoboKiller for blocking spam calls

RoboKiller screens and blocks unwanted spam calls. It only allows regular calls to go through, ensuring you don’t miss important phone calls. You can also give spammers a taste of their own medicine by selecting Answer Bots to talk to them. The company offers a one-week free trial. Meanwhile, the Standard plan costs $5 a month.

Shield yourself from robocalls and other types of spam

Robocalls are annoying, and they can also be a threat to your security in extreme cases. While registering your phone number on the Do Not Call Registry helps, some spam calls can still go through. you may use your smartphone’s built-inspam-blocking toolsor third-party apps.

Notification for Ads by Google overlayed on top of Android phone on a yellow and green background

Screenshot highlighting the Recent tab in the Phone app

Screenshot highlighting block/report junk in the Phone app

Screenshot highlighting the Block option in the Phone app

Screenshot highlighting the three-dot menu in the Phone app