Alex Ruben
Ultimate Guide: How to Stop Spam Calls on Your Android Phone
Spam calls can be an annoying disruption in our daily lives, especially when they come from unknown numbers or automated systems. Fortunately, Android smartphones come equipped with various features and settings that allow you to block these unsolicited calls effectively. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to stop spam calls on your Android device, including how to utilize built-in features and third-party applications to ensure a spam-free experience.
Before diving into the steps, ensure that your Android device is updated to the latest version for optimal performance of the call-blocking features. You may also want to check that you have access to the Google Play Store to download necessary applications. Make sure you have a stable internet connection to facilitate downloads.
Step 1: Install the Phone by Google App
The first step in blocking spam calls is to use the Phone by Google app, which has built-in spam detection features. To install this app:
- Open the Play Store on your device.
- In the search bar, type Phone by Google and tap the search icon.
- Locate the app in the results and tap on it.
- Select Install and wait for the app to download and install on your device.
Step 2: Set Phone by Google as Your Default Dialer
After installing the app, you need to set it as your default dialer to access its spam filtering features:
- Open the Settings on your device.
- Scroll down and tap on Apps.
- Select Default Apps.
- Choose Phone App and select Phone by Google from the options.
Step 3: Enable Spam Call Protection
With the app installed and set as your dialer, you can now enable spam call protection:
- Open the Phone by Google app.
- Tap on the three dots in the top right corner to access the menu, then select Settings.
- Tap on Caller ID & Spam.
- Enable the toggle for See Caller ID & Spam to allow the app to identify spam calls.
- Also, enable the toggle for Filter Spam Calls to block known spam numbers automatically.
Step 4: Install a Third-Party Spam Blocker App
If you want an additional layer of protection, consider installing a dedicated spam blocker app such as Truecaller. Here’s how to do it:
- Return to the Play Store.
- Search for Truecaller and tap on it in the search results.
- Select Install to download the app.
- Once installed, open the app and follow the setup instructions, including signing in or creating an account.
- After setup, you will be prompted to set Truecaller as your default phone app. Accept this to complete the integration.
Step 5: Customize Truecaller Settings
To fully utilize Truecaller’s features, customize its settings:
- Open the Truecaller app.
- Go to Settings from the main menu.
- Adjust settings to your preference, making sure to enable options for spam blocking and caller identification.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
To enhance your spam-blocking experience:
- Regularly update both the Phone by Google and Truecaller apps to benefit from the latest spam databases and features.
- If you continue to receive spam calls, consider registering your number with a national Do Not Disturb list, if available in your country.
- Be cautious when sharing your phone number online to reduce the risk of being targeted by spam callers.
Common issues include missed calls from legitimate numbers due to aggressive spam filtering settings. Adjust your settings if you notice important calls being blocked.
Conclusion
Blocking spam calls on your Android phone is an essential step towards a more peaceful phone experience. By following these steps, you will be able to take control of your incoming calls and minimize disruptions from unwanted solicitations. Don’t forget to explore additional guides to enhance your Android experience further!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I report spam calls?
You can report spam calls directly through the Phone by Google app or Truecaller by marking the incoming call as spam when prompted.
Will blocking a number prevent them from calling me again?
Yes, once you block a number using either app, that number will no longer be able to reach you unless you unblock it.
What if I still receive spam calls after following these steps?
If spam calls persist, consider reaching out to your mobile carrier for additional call-blocking services they may offer.