Safety & Scam Protection · Quick guide
How to Block Robocalls on iPhone and Android (That Actually Works)
Robocalls are more than just an annoyance; they're often a gateway to scams targeting unsuspecting individuals. This article provides practical, step-by-step instructions for older adults to reclaim their peace and privacy by blocking these incessant calls on both iPhones and Android devices.
By Suzy Ahn
Oh, robocalls. If I had a nickel for every time one of my wonderful students or readers mentioned these incessant, irritating interruptions, I'd probably be writing this from a beach in Fiji! But in all seriousness, these calls are more than just a nuisance. They can be incredibly disruptive, and far too often, they're outright attempts to defraud us. As a technology educator with nearly two decades of experience helping older adults feel more comfortable and confident with their smartphones, I know firsthand the stress these calls can cause. But fear not, dear reader! You have more power than you think to silence these digital pests. We're going to walk through, step-by-step, how to make your iPhone or Android device a fortress against robocalls.
Watch & learn
Recommended video: How to Spot a Phone Scam Before You Get Caught
A companion tutorial from AARP. We link to a YouTube search so you always get a current, working version.
Watch “How to Spot a Phone Scam Before You Get Caught” on YouTubeOpens a YouTube search in a new tab · AARPKey takeaways
- Robocalls are a significant problem, often used by scammers to target older adults.
- Both iPhone and Android offer built-in features to help you block or silence unwanted calls.
- Learning to manually block numbers is a crucial skill for immediate relief from repeat callers.
- Carrier-provided blocking services can add an extra layer of protection, often for a small fee or included in your plan.
- Third-party apps can offer advanced filtering and reporting, but always choose reputable ones and be mindful of privacy.
Frequently asked questions
- What is a robocall?
- A robocall is an automated phone call that delivers a pre-recorded message through a computer. While some can be legitimate (like appointment reminders), many are telemarketing scams or phishing attempts.
- Will blocking robocalls prevent legitimate calls?
- Using features like Silence Unknown Callers on iPhone or Call Screen on Android can sometimes block or screen legitimate calls from numbers not in your contacts. It's a balance between stopping unwanted calls and potentially missing a call you wanted. You can always review recent blocked calls or listen to screened calls.
- Are third-party call blocking apps safe to use?
- Many third-party apps are reputable and offer excellent protection. However, always research an app before downloading. Look for apps with good reviews from trusted sources, and be aware of what permissions they request. Avoid apps that seem overly intrusive or demand too much personal information.
