Blocking Spam Calls on Android: Tools, Apps and Legal Solutions

I. Introduction

Spam calls are pervasive and problematic for Android users, who are at risk of losing their privacy and dealing with the nuisance of unwanted calls. While technology has made communication easier, it has also made it easier for scammers and telemarketers to reach unsuspecting individuals. This article provides a comprehensive guide to block spam calls on Android devices.

II. Activating Built-In Blocking Feature on Android Device

Android devices have a built-in blocking feature that users can use to block individual numbers or unknown calls. To activate this feature on your Android device, follow these simple steps:

1. Open the Phone app on your Android device.
2. Tap on the Menu button (three dots) located in the upper-right corner of the app.
3. Select “Settings.”
4. Select “Blocked numbers.”
5. Select “Add a number.”
6. Add the phone number you want to block by typing it in, or select it from your call log or message log.

Android’s built-in blocking feature works by diverting calls from blocked numbers to voicemail. The blocked caller will not receive any notification that they have been blocked, and they will not be able to leave a voicemail. However, this feature does not block calls from unknown numbers or those with no caller ID.

III. Top-Rated Spam Blocking Apps on the Google Play Store

There are several third-party apps available that can help you block spam calls on Android devices. Here are some of the top-rated spam blocking apps available on Google Play Store:

• Truecaller: Truecaller is one of the most popular spam blocking apps on the market. It uses a vast database of caller ID information to identify spam calls and block them. Truecaller also has a community-based spam-reporting feature that allows users to report spam calls and messages.
• Nomorobo: Nomorobo is a spam call blocking app that uses artificial intelligence to filter out unwanted calls. Nomorobo also works with popular VoIP services, such as Skype and Google Voice. However, Nomorobo is not a free app.
• Hiya: Hiya is a free spam blocking app that identifies unknown callers and blocks spam calls. Hiya also provides a feature to automatically add phone numbers that are known to be spammers to your blocked list.

Each spam blocking app has its restrictions and features. While some apps may provide more robust spam blocking, others may require payment for full access. Before choosing an app, consider reading reviews and comparisons to determine which one is right for you.

IV. Customized Screening Settings to Restrict Specific Unwanted Numbers or Callers with No Caller ID

One way to mitigate spam calls is by creating customized screening settings. Here’s how:

1. Open the Phone app on your Android device.
2. Tap on the Menu button (three dots) located in the upper-right corner of the app.
3. Select “Settings.”
4. Select “Call blocking.”
5. Select “Block list.”
6. Select the type of phone number you want to block (unknown, private, or pay phone numbers).

If you only want to restrict specific numbers or callers, you can follow these steps:

1. Select “Add a number.”
2. Add the phone number you want to block by typing it in, or select it from your call log or message log.
3. Select “Save” to add the number to your block list.

Customized screening settings will block specified numbers or calls from unknown numbers. It is an effective way to prevent calls from known spammers or telemarketers.

V. Various Tools and Software to Monitor and Mitigate Future Spam Calls

Other tools and software are available that can help monitor and mitigate spam calls. Here are some of the most effective tools currently available:

• RoboKiller: RoboKiller is an AI-powered app that uses machine learning algorithms to filter out spam calls. RoboKiller can block unwanted calls and SMS messages, allowing only important calls to come through. However, it is a paid service with a seven-day free trial.
• Scam Shield: Scam Shield is an app provided by T-Mobile that uses AI and predictive algorithms to identify and block spam calls. Scam Shield also provides users with a virtual number, which users can give to individuals or businesses that they do not know, so they can avoid receiving unwanted calls on their personal numbers.
• Call Control: Call Control is a spam blocking app that uses a community-based reporting system to identify and block spam calls. Call Control can also block texts and report abusive texts and calls.

While each tool and software have their advantages and disadvantages, all of them are effective ways to prevent unwanted spam calls.

VI. Legal Regulations Around Spam Calls and Filing Complaints Against Spammers or Telemarketers

Android users can also file complaints against spammers or telemarketers under telemarketing laws enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

The Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) prohibits most telemarketing calls to cell phone numbers, and the National Do Not Call Registry allows individuals to register their phone numbers and ask telemarketers not to call them.

To file a complaint against a spammers or telemarketers, users can visit the FTC’s online Complaint Assistant or the FCC’s online Consumer Complaint Center. Complaints against telemarketers can result in fines and prosecution for violators.

VII. Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several ways to mitigate spam calls on Android devices. Activating built-in blocking features, using spam blocking apps, customized screening settings, and additional tools and software can help block unwanted calls. Android users can also file complaints against spammers and telemarketers under TCPA laws enforced by the FTC and FCC. It is important to understand the options available to protect your privacy and peace of mind from unwanted spam calls.

Our final recommendation is to explore all the options you have and choose an approach that best suits your needs and lifestyle.