Readers will learn how to block unwanted calls on cell phones, internet-based home phones, and traditional landlines using official guidance from the US Federal Trade Commission.
What it does
Call-blocking software or devices can stop scam calls and illegal robocalls before they reach you. Call labeling also lets you see warnings like spam or scam likely on your phone screen so you can decide whether to answer.
Steps
Step 1: To block calls on a cell phone, go to the online app store for your phone’s operating system to download a call-blocking app, check the built-in features of your phone to block specific numbers or use Do Not Disturb, and check your phone provider's website or call customer service to see what services it offers.
Step 2: To block calls on a home phone that uses the internet, first find out if your phone uses VoIP service by checking with your phone provider, then read expert reviews on internet-based call-blocking services.
Step 3: To block calls on a traditional landline, consider buying and installing a call-blocking device such as a small box attached to your phone, and see what services your phone provider offers.
Step 4: Report unwanted calls to the FTC at DoNotCall.gov, or if you lost money to the scammer, at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
What the organization says
The US Federal Trade Commission states that your best defense against unwanted calls is call blocking and call labeling. The FTC advises that if you get an illegal robocall, you should hang up and not call back or press a number.
What to do
- Download a call-blocking app from your phone's online app store or check your phone's built-in settings and provider services.
- Determine if your home phone uses internet VoIP service and research internet-based call-blocking services.
- Install a call-blocking device if you use a traditional landline.
- Report unwanted calls and robocalls to the FTC at DoNotCall.gov or ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Key facts and where they come from
- Call-blocking apps act like a filter to intercept scam calls before they reach your cell phone.
One of the best ways to block unwanted calls on a cell phone is to download a call-blocking app, which acts like a filter.
- Internet-based home phones may use VoIP service to make calls over the internet instead of phone lines.
Your home phone might have VoIP service. “VoIP” stands for “Voice over Internet Protocol,” and it means that your phone makes calls over the internet instead of phone lines.
- Traditional landlines that do not use the internet can use call-blocking devices attached as small boxes.
If your home phone is a traditional landline that doesn’t use the internet (VoIP), consider buying and installing a call-blocking device.
