Have you ever answered your phone only to hear someone claiming to be from your bank, a delivery company, Microsoft, or even the government?
Unfortunately, scam calls are becoming increasingly common.
Scammers often try to create panic or urgency to trick people into giving away personal information, bank details, passwords, or even money.
The good news is that modern smartphones include tools that can help block unwanted calls and reduce the number of scam calls you receive.
This beginner-friendly guide explains how to block scam calls on both Android phones and iPhones, how to recognise warning signs, and what to do if you receive a suspicious call.
What Is a Scam Call?
A scam call is a phone call made by someone attempting to trick you into:
- Giving away personal information
- Sharing passwords or security codes
- Providing bank details
- Sending money
- Installing software on your phone or computer
Scammers can sound professional and convincing. Some may even use technology that makes their number appear genuine.
Common Types of Scam Calls
🏦 Bank Scams
The caller claims there is suspicious activity on your account and asks for security details.
📦 Delivery Scams
The caller says there is a problem with a parcel delivery and requests payment or information.
💻 Computer Support Scams
Someone claims your computer has a virus and offers to fix it remotely.
🏛️ Government Scams
The caller pretends to be from HMRC or another government department and demands payment.
📱 Mobile Phone Scams
The caller claims your mobile contract needs updating or your account has been compromised.
Warning Signs of a Scam Call
Be cautious if the caller:
🚩 Asks for passwords
🚩 Requests PIN numbers
🚩 Wants bank details
🚩 Pressures you to act immediately
🚩 Says your account will be closed
🚩 Demands payment
🚩 Threatens legal action
🚩 Refuses to let you hang up
Remember
Legitimate organisations will not pressure you into making immediate decisions over the phone.
How to Block Scam Calls on an iPhone
Block a Specific Number
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap Recents.
- Find the unwanted number.
- Tap the ⓘ (Info) icon.
- Scroll down.
- Tap Block this Caller.
The caller will no longer be able to phone or text you.
Silence Unknown Callers
This useful feature automatically silences calls from numbers that are not saved in your contacts.
To enable:
- Open Settings
- Tap Phone
- Select Silence Unknown Callers
- Turn it On
Calls will still appear in your call history and voicemail.
How to Block Scam Calls on Android
The exact steps may vary slightly depending on your phone model.
Block a Specific Number
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap Recent Calls.
- Select the unwanted number.
- Tap Block or Block & Report Spam.
Enable Spam Protection
Many Android phones include built-in spam detection.
To enable:
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap the three dots menu.
- Select Settings.
- Tap Caller ID & Spam.
- Turn the feature On.
Your phone may warn you when a suspected scam call is received.
Register with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS)
If you live in the UK, you can register your number with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS).
This free service helps reduce unwanted marketing calls.
Benefits
✅ Fewer legitimate sales calls
✅ Free registration
✅ Quick and easy to use
⚠️ It will not stop all scammers, but it can reduce nuisance calls.
What Should I Do If I Receive a Scam Call?
DO
✅ Hang up if something feels suspicious
✅ Verify the company independently
✅ Contact the organisation using details from its official website
✅ Report suspicious calls
✅ Talk to a trusted family member if unsure
DON’T
❌ Give passwords
❌ Share PIN numbers
❌ Share security codes
❌ Transfer money
❌ Install software
❌ Allow remote access to your device
Real Examples of Scam Calls
“Your bank account has been compromised.”
Hang up and call your bank using the number on the back of your card.
“Your computer has a virus.”
Microsoft, Apple, and Google do not make unsolicited support calls.
“You owe tax and must pay today.”
Government organisations do not demand immediate payment over the phone.
“Your parcel cannot be delivered.”
Visit the delivery company’s official website directly to check.
Should I Answer Unknown Numbers?
Not necessarily.
If you’re unsure:
📞 Let the call go to voicemail.
Legitimate callers can leave a message explaining why they called.
Many scammers hang up when they reach voicemail.
Can Scam Callers Leave Voicemails?
Yes.
Some scammers leave automated messages asking you to:
- Call back immediately
- Press a number
- Make a payment
- Visit a website
Treat these messages with caution.
Quick Scam Call Safety Checklist
Before continuing a call, ask yourself:
☐ Was I expecting this call?
☐ Do I recognise the number?
☐ Are they asking for personal information?
☐ Are they creating urgency?
☐ Are they requesting money?
☐ Does something feel suspicious?
If the answer is yes to any of these questions:
🛑 STOP
🤔 THINK
✅ CHECK
Never feel pressured into making a decision immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why am I getting so many scam calls?
Your phone number may have been obtained through marketing lists, data breaches, online forms, or automated dialling systems.
Will blocking one number stop all scam calls?
No.
Scammers frequently use different numbers, but blocking known numbers can still help reduce nuisance calls.
Can I stop scam calls completely?
Unfortunately, no.
However, using your phone’s blocking features and staying alert can greatly reduce your risk.
Are scam calls dangerous?
The call itself is not dangerous, but scammers may attempt to steal information, money, or access to your devices.
Final Thoughts
Scam calls are becoming more sophisticated, but a few simple precautions can help keep you safe.
Use your phone’s built-in blocking tools, be cautious of unexpected callers, and never feel pressured into sharing personal information.
Remember:
If in doubt, hang up and verify independently.
It’s always better to check than to risk becoming a victim of a scam.
Related Guides
📧 How To Recognise a Scam Email
📱 How To Recognise a Scam Text Message
🔐 Password Safety Tips for Beginners
🛡️ Online Safety Tips for Beginners
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