How to Stop Spam Calls: The Ultimate Guide (2026)

You're in the middle of a meeting. Your phone rings. You glance down, and it's a local number you don't recognize.

Maybe it's important?

You answer.

"Hi, we've been trying to reach you about your car's extended warranty..."

Not again.

Spam calls are relentless. They interrupt your day, fill up your voicemail, and somehow always seem to know the worst possible time to call.

And they're getting sneakier. Scammers can disguise their numbers, make calls appear local, and even impersonate legitimate businesses.

The good news? You don't have to put up with it.

Whether you're using an iPhone or Android, there are several ways to block spam calls, stop robocalls, and take back control of your phone.

In this guide, we'll cover:

• How to stop spam calls using your phone's built-in settings
• Free tools offered by major carriers
• The best spam call blocker apps
• Simple habits that can reduce unwanted calls
• When it might actually make sense to change your number

The trick is using multiple layers of protection. No single tool catches everything, but combining a few can make a big difference.

And if you're wondering whether your carrier offers enough protection, you can compare cell phone plans with Goji to explore your options.

Why Are You Getting So Many Spam Calls?

The short answer? Because making spam calls is incredibly easy and cheap.

Scammers use automated dialing systems to contact huge numbers of people without manually entering each phone number.

They don't need everyone to answer. They just need a small percentage of people to pick up.

But how did they get your number in the first place?

There are several possibilities:

• Data breaches: Your phone number may have been exposed when a company experienced a security breach.
• Online forms: Signing up for promotions, contests, or websites can sometimes put your number on marketing lists.
• Data brokers: Some companies collect and sell consumer contact information.
• Random dialing: Scammers can generate phone numbers automatically without ever obtaining yours from a list.

Then there's something called neighbor spoofing.

This is when a spam caller disguises their phone number to make it look like it's coming from your area code, or even the first few digits of your own number.

The goal? Make the call look familiar enough that you'll answer.

Unfortunately, seeing a local number doesn't mean the person calling is actually nearby.

Types of Spam Calls to Watch For

Not every unwanted call is the same. Some are annoying sales pitches, while others are designed to steal your money or personal information.

Here's how to recognize the difference.

Robocalls & Auto-Dialers

Robocalls are automated phone calls that deliver prerecorded messages instead of connecting you with a real person.

You've probably heard a few classics:

• "We've been trying to reach you about your vehicle's extended warranty."
• "Your Social Security number has been suspended."
• "You've won a free vacation!"
• "There's an urgent issue with your tax return."

Some automated calls are legitimate, like appointment reminders or school notifications. But many unwanted robocalls are scams or illegal telemarketing.

If a recorded message asks you to press a number to claim a prize, verify an account, or avoid a penalty, be suspicious.

Scam & Phishing Calls

These are more dangerous than ordinary spam.

Scam calls are designed to trick you into sharing sensitive information or sending money.

A caller might pretend to be:

• Your bank's fraud department
• The IRS or Social Security Administration
• A tech support representative
• Your wireless carrier
• A delivery company

They'll often create a sense of urgency.

For example, someone claiming to represent your bank might say your account has been compromised and you need to verify your identity immediately.

Never share passwords, verification codes, or financial information with someone who unexpectedly calls you.

If you're concerned the call might be legitimate, hang up and contact the organization using its official website, app, or a trusted phone number.

Telemarketing Calls

Telemarketing calls aren't necessarily scams.

These are calls from businesses trying to sell you products or services, including insurance, home improvements, subscriptions, and other offers.

Some telemarketing calls are legal, depending on whether you've given permission and whether the caller follows applicable rules.

But that doesn't mean you have to keep answering them.

One of the easiest ways to reduce legitimate sales calls is to register your number with the National Do Not Call Registry, which we'll cover below.

How to Stop Spam Calls on Your Phone

Before downloading another app or paying for spam protection, check your phone's settings.

Both iPhones and Android devices have built-in features designed to identify, screen, silence, or block unwanted callers.

And many of them are completely free.

How to Block Spam Calls on iPhone

Apple offers several tools to help you manage unknown callers.

Option 1: Silence or screen unknown callers

On supported versions of iOS, you can choose how your iPhone handles calls from numbers it doesn't recognize.

Here's how:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Apps, then Phone.
3. Find the settings for screening or silencing unknown callers.
4. Choose your preferred option, such as Silence or Ask Reason for Calling, if available.

The Silence option sends calls from unsaved numbers to voicemail rather than ringing your phone, subject to Apple's exceptions.

The newer call-screening feature can ask unknown callers to identify themselves and explain why they're calling before your phone rings.

That means you can get more context before deciding whether to answer.

One thing to remember: Silencing unknown callers can also affect legitimate calls from doctors, delivery drivers, recruiters, and other people who aren't saved in your contacts.

If you're expecting an important call, consider temporarily adjusting your settings.

Option 2: Block a specific phone number

If the same number keeps calling:

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Go to your recent calls.
3. Tap the number or its information icon.
4. Select Block Caller or Block this Caller.

That number will no longer be able to ring your phone normally.

Just remember that scammers frequently change or spoof numbers, so blocking individual numbers won't stop every spam call.

Option 3: Enable caller identification apps

iPhones also support compatible third-party call identification and blocking apps.

After installing one, check Settings > Apps > Phone > Call Blocking & Identification to enable its available features. The exact menu may vary by iOS version.

How to Block Spam Calls on Android

Android users have several built-in spam protection options, especially on Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy devices.

The exact settings depend on your phone's manufacturer and software version.

Option 1: Turn on spam protection in Google's Phone app

If your phone uses the Phone by Google app:

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Tap the three-dot menu.
3. Select Settings.
4. Tap Caller ID & spam.
5. Turn on See caller ID & spam.
6. If available, enable Filter spam calls.

This helps identify suspected spam calls and, on supported devices, filter them before they interrupt you.

Option 2: Use Google Call Screen

Google Pixel phones offer Call Screen, which can help determine who's calling and why.

Depending on your Pixel model, region, and software version, Call Screen may automatically screen certain calls or let you screen them manually.

To check your options:

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Go to Settings.
3. Look for Spam and Call Screen or Call Screen.
4. Follow the available setup instructions.

Google Assistant or Google's automated screening system can ask callers why they're calling and show you their responses.

You can then decide whether to answer.

Option 3: Enable Samsung Smart Call

Many Samsung Galaxy phones offer Smart Call, powered by Hiya, to identify suspected spam and fraud calls.

To enable it:

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Tap the three-dot menu.
3. Select Settings.
4. Tap Caller ID and spam protection.
5. Turn the feature on, if supported.

You may also see options to block suspected spam or scam calls.

Option 4: Block individual numbers

Most Android phones let you block callers directly from your call history.

Open your recent calls, select the unwanted number, and choose the available blocking or spam-reporting option.

The exact steps may differ slightly between devices.

Still using an older phone without the screening features you want? You can browse phones on Goji or compare your current phone with newer models to see whether an upgrade makes sense.

Free Ways to Stop Spam Calls

You don't necessarily need to pay for a spam call blocker.

In fact, some of the most useful protections are completely free.

Here are three places to start.

1. Register with the National Do Not Call Registry

The National Do Not Call Registry is a free service managed by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

It allows you to register your phone number to reduce unwanted calls from legitimate telemarketers.

Here's how:

1. Visit donotcall.gov.
2. Select the option to register your phone.
3. Enter your phone number and follow the verification instructions.
4. Complete your registration.

You can also register by calling 1-888-382-1222 from the number you want to register.

Once your number has been on the registry for 31 days, most telemarketers covered by the rules should stop calling.

But there's an important catch.

The Do Not Call Registry doesn't stop scammers.

Companies already breaking the law aren't likely to respect a government registry.

It also doesn't prohibit every type of call, including certain political, charitable, and survey calls.

Still, it's a simple, free step worth taking.

2. Use Your Carrier's Built-In Spam Protection

Your wireless carrier may already offer tools to detect and block suspicious calls.

For example:

• AT&T: ActiveArmor offers spam and fraud call protection.
• Verizon: Call Filter helps identify and filter suspected spam.
• T-Mobile: Scam Shield features help identify and block likely scam calls.

Many basic protections are free, although premium features may require an additional subscription or eligible plan.

Before paying for a separate app, check what's included with your current phone service.

You might already have more protection than you realize.

3. Don't Answer Unknown Numbers

Sometimes the simplest solution is the best one.

If you don't recognize a number and aren't expecting a call, let it go to voicemail.

Legitimate callers who need to reach you can usually leave a message.

And if you do answer a suspicious call?

Hang up.

Don't argue, share information, or follow instructions to press a number.

Pressing a button to supposedly remove yourself from a scammer's call list can lead to more unwanted calls.

Instead, block or report the number using your phone's built-in tools.

Best Spam Call Blocker Apps (Free & Paid)

If built-in protections aren't doing enough, a spam call blocker app can add another layer of defense.

These apps typically use databases of reported spam numbers, caller identification technology, and automated filtering to identify suspicious calls.

Some offer free basic features, while others charge for advanced blocking or additional privacy tools.

Here are a few options worth considering.

Which Spam Call Blocker App Should You Choose?

It depends on what you're trying to accomplish.

For basic protection: Start with your phone's built-in spam settings and your carrier's free tools.

For identifying unknown callers: An app like Truecaller or Hiya may help you recognize numbers that aren't saved in your contacts.

For more aggressive filtering: A paid app such as RoboKiller may be worth exploring if you're dealing with frequent unwanted calls.

Before installing anything, review the app's privacy policy, permissions, subscription terms, and compatibility with your phone.

Some caller identification services rely on user reports and shared databases. Others may require access to call-related information to function.

And remember: no app can identify every scammer, especially when callers frequently spoof or change their numbers.

Carrier-Level Spam Protection: What Each Major Carrier Offers

Your phone settings are only one part of the equation.

Your wireless carrier can also help identify suspicious calls at the network level, sometimes before they even reach your phone.

But not every carrier offers the same protection.

Some features work automatically, while others require an app, account setting, or paid subscription.

Here's how the three major U.S. carriers approach spam protection.

AT&T: ActiveArmor

AT&T offers spam and fraud call protection through its ActiveArmor service.

Depending on your plan and device, features can include:

• Automatic fraud call blocking
• Suspected spam call identification
• Spam call blocking and management
• Additional security features through eligible premium offerings

Basic ActiveArmor mobile security features are available at no additional cost on eligible AT&T wireless service.

More advanced features may require ActiveArmor Advanced or another qualifying subscription or plan.

If you're an AT&T customer, check your account and ActiveArmor settings to see which protections are active.

Verizon: Call Filter

Verizon offers a service called Call Filter.

It helps customers identify and manage suspected spam calls.

Features may include:

• Spam detection and risk labels
• Spam filtering
• Reporting unwanted callers
• Additional caller identification and blocking controls with Call Filter Plus

Verizon offers a free Call Filter tier for eligible customers, while Call Filter Plus provides additional features for a fee.

Availability can vary depending on your device, account, and plan.

T-Mobile: Scam Shield

T-Mobile provides scam protection features under the Scam Shield name.

These include:

• Scam ID, which identifies likely scam calls
• Scam Block, which can block suspected scam calls
• Caller ID features on eligible plans
• Additional tools through premium services

Many of T-Mobile's core scam protection features are available at no additional cost.

Some advanced caller identification and management features may depend on your plan or require an upgrade.

Does Your Carrier Really Matter for Spam Protection?

Yes, but there's more to consider than the carrier's name.

Even smaller carriers, often called mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs), may offer spam protection features.

These carriers use networks operated by larger companies like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile.

However, that doesn't mean every smaller carrier includes the exact same spam-blocking services as its host network.

If you're comparing budget-friendly plans, it's worth checking which spam protection tools are included.

And don't forget the other basics: price, data, and coverage.

Goji lets you compare plans from different carriers, so you can narrow down your options before checking each carrier's specific security features.

You can also check coverage in your area to make sure a new carrier actually works where you need it.

Should You Just Get a New Phone Number?

If you're getting nonstop spam calls, changing your number might sound like the easiest solution.

New number. Fresh start. Problem solved.

Unfortunately, it's not always that simple.

Changing your phone number should usually be a last resort.

Here's why:

• You'll need to update your number with friends, family, and important contacts.
• Banks and other accounts may use your existing number for two-factor authentication.
• You'll need to update your contact information with doctors, employers, and other services.
• Your new number may have belonged to someone else who also received spam calls.

And there's no guarantee scammers won't eventually find your new number.

That said, changing your number may be worth considering if you're experiencing severe, persistent harassment or an overwhelming number of unwanted calls that other tools haven't reduced.

Before making the switch, try combining phone-level blocking, carrier protection, and better privacy habits.

You may be able to solve the problem without the hassle of updating your number everywhere.

Bonus Tips to Reduce Spam Calls Long-Term

Blocking spam calls is one thing. Keeping your number off new spam lists is another.

A few small habits can help reduce your exposure over time.

1. Think twice before sharing your phone number.

Not every website, giveaway, or online form needs your real number. If a phone number is optional, consider leaving it blank.

2. Avoid posting your number publicly.

Scammers and data brokers can collect phone numbers from public websites, social media profiles, and online listings.

3. Don't press buttons during suspicious robocalls.

If a recorded message tells you to press "1" to speak with someone or "9" to be removed, hang up instead.

4. Review app permissions.

Check which apps have access to your contacts and other personal information. Remove permissions that aren't necessary.

5. Be careful with unexpected verification requests.

Never give a one-time passcode to someone who calls you unexpectedly, even if they claim to work for your bank or carrier.

6. Report suspicious calls.

You can report unwanted calls through your phone's spam reporting tools, your carrier, or the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

7. Keep your phone updated.

Software updates can include improvements to security, caller identification, and spam filtering.

None of these habits will eliminate spam completely, but they can help make your number a harder target.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I keep getting spam calls from local numbers?

Scammers use a technique called neighbor spoofing to make their calls appear to come from local numbers. This makes the calls look more trustworthy, even though the caller could be anywhere.

Does *67 or blocking my number stop spam calls?

No. Dialing *67 hides your caller ID when making outgoing calls, where supported, but it doesn't stop incoming spam calls. To block spam calls, use your phone's built-in settings or your carrier's spam protection tools.

Is it illegal to spam call someone?

Some spam calls are illegal, particularly scam calls and certain unsolicited robocalls. The Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) regulates automated calls and telemarketing, but not all unsolicited calls are against the law.

Can I sue a company for spam calls?

Yes, in some cases. The TCPA allows individuals to take legal action for certain violations, but eligibility depends on the circumstances. Consult a legal professional to understand your options.

Do spam call blocker apps actually work?

Yes! Spam call blocker apps can identify and filter many unwanted calls using spam databases and caller identification technology. However, no app catches every spam call, especially when scammers frequently change their numbers.

Will switching carriers help reduce spam calls?

Potentially! Some carriers offer better spam detection and blocking tools than others. You can compare cell phone plans with Goji to explore your options, but remember that switching carriers won't eliminate spam calls completely.