Unwanted calls have become daily hazards, with scammers specifically targeting people over 62. These aren't small-time crooks — they steal a shocking $28 billion from seniors annually, with average losses around $35,000 per victim. This guide walks you through practical, call-blocking solutions to protect yourself.
What are Spam Calls and Robocalls?
Spam calls and robocalls are automated phone calls that use computer systems to dial many phone numbers at the same time. This technology is becoming more advanced, with artificial intelligence (AI) making these fake calls harder to spot.
Some robocalls are legitimate, like doctor appointment reminders. But it’s important to watch out for calls that are designed to get your money or personal information.
Scammers often use "spoofing" to hide their true identity, making your caller ID display names you can trust, such as your bank, the IRS, or Medicare. They typically create urgent situations about benefit problems or tax issues that need "immediate attention."
Common types include:
- Telemarketing calls selling products or services
- Informational calls about your accounts or appointments
- Political campaign messages asking for support
- Charity calls requesting donations
- Scam calls trying to steal your information or money
Common Spam Call Scams to Watch For
Scam callers are getting smarter — but so can you. By learning the red flags of the most common phone scams, you can reduce your risk of falling victim by up to 80%.
Romance Scams
Someone creates a fake online profile, builds a relationship with you, and invents emergencies requiring money transfers or gift cards. They'll have excuses for why you can't meet in person.
Grandparent Scams
A caller pretends to be your grandchild in trouble, often starting with "Grandma/Grandpa, it's me!" They claim they need bail money or emergency cash.
Sweepstakes or Lottery Scams
You've "won" a prize but need to pay fees or taxes upfront. Legitimate contests never require payment to collect winnings.
Tech Support Scams
Someone claims your computer has a virus or other problem. They'll offer to "fix" it by requesting remote access or payment information to charge hefty fees.
Phishing Scams
Calls pretending to be from banks, Medicare, or government agencies to steal Social Security numbers, credit card details, or login credentials. They often create urgency with threats or deadlines.
Health Insurance Scams
Fake offers for Medicare cards, supplemental policies, or medical devices designed to collect fees or personal data. These often spike during Medicare open enrollment periods.
Debt Collection Scams
Aggressive calls claiming unpaid debts and demanding immediate payment, often via gift cards or wire transfers. Legitimate collectors will never demand these payment methods.
Investment Scams
Promises of high returns with urgent pressure to invest quickly. The "opportunity" is supposedly exclusive or time-limited. Remember: guaranteed high returns without risk don't exist.
Robocalls and Phone Scam Red Flags
- Urgent requests demanding immediate action
- Callers asking for payment via gift cards or wire transfers
- Threats about arrest, lawsuits, or computer viruses
- Requests for personal information like SSN or bank details
- Too-good-to-be-true offers or prizes
- Callers who get angry when you ask questions
- Pressure tactics pushing for quick decisions
Use Built-In Phone Features to Block Spam Calls
Most phones today come with built-in tools to reduce spam calls. Here’s how to activate these features and enjoy a more peaceful day without constant interruptions.
For Android Users
- Block specific numbers: After receiving a spam call, open your Phone app, find the number in your call history, tap on it and select "Block/report spam."
- Silence unknown callers: This setting filters out calls from people not in your contact list. Open the Phone app, select the menu (three dots), tap Settings > Blocked numbers, and then toggle on “Unknown.”
- Filter suspicious text messages: This manages potential spam texts in Google’s Messages app. Tap the profile icon in the top right corner, and select Messages Settings > Spam protection. Turn on the Enable spam protection option, and your phone will warn you when incoming texts appear suspicious.
Keep in mind that different types of Android phones may require slightly different steps to block numbers and stop spam calls.
For iPhone Users
- Block specific numbers: After receiving an unwanted call, tap the info (i) button next to the number in your recent calls list, scroll down, and select "Block Caller." The number will never be able to reach you again.
- Silence unknown callers: This setting automatically sends calls from numbers not in your contacts to voicemail. Go to Settings > Apps > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers and toggle it on.
- Filter text messages from unknown senders: This setting organizes messages from unknown senders into a separate list. Go to Settings > Apps > Messages > Filter Unknown & Spam and turn it on to keep your main message list clutter-free.
For Landline Users
If you still rely on a traditional home phone, you're not out of options for keeping spam calls to a minimum.
- Call blocking device: Purchase a call-blocking device like CPR Call Blocker or Panasonic Call Blocker that connects between your phone and the wall jack.
- Call-blocking subscription service: Most landline providers offer call-blocking services for a small monthly fee. Contact your provider to add this feature.
- Traditional answering machine: Let your answering machine screen calls. Spammers rarely leave messages, while friends and family will.
Best Call-Blocking Apps for Seniors
The native call blocking on your phone is useful, but third-party apps can provide additional protection.
Robokiller (Android, iOS) blocks unwanted calls and can even answer them with pre-recorded messages that keep telemarketers on the line, wasting their time instead of yours. It has both free and premium options.
For basic features without the bells and whistles, look at Truecaller (Android, iOS). It doesn't offer many advanced features, but it gives you more caller information than your phone's default caller ID, even if the number isn't saved in your contacts. It works best on Android devices, though basic functionality is available for iOS. Truecaller offers both free and premium options.
Nomorobo (Android, iOS) is a good choice if privacy is your main concern. Most apps collect your data, but Nomorobo doesn’t track your location or contacts. While there is no free version, you can try it for 14 days to decide if it's worth keeping.
If you’re looking for landline call-blocking tools, teleCalm is your best option. It works with corded and cordless home telephones. teleCalm is helpful for seniors and those with dementia or cognitive impairment, and lets you set up approved caller lists for incoming and outgoing calls. It doesn’t have a free plan, and it’s pricier than the other apps.
Protection from AT&T, Verizon, and Other Providers
If you've already set up your phone's basic blocking features and want more protection without installing another app, your carrier may offer free or low-cost call-blocking tools.
- AT&T ActiveArmor: This service identifies and blocks suspicious calls and text messages. It shows you when a call might be spam and allows you to make a list of numbers you want to block.
- Verizon Call Filter: When a call comes in, Call Filter displays a "Potential Spam" message. You can block specific numbers and report unwanted calls.
- T-Mobile Scam Shield: This tool works in the background to identify calls from suspicious sources. It relies on network data to recognize and label potential scam calls before you answer them.
- Other providers: Most providers now include some form of spam protection. Check your carrier's website or call customer service to ask about available options.
Reporting and Prevention Strategies
Phone scammers are counting on you to act quickly without thinking. The good news? A few simple strategies can reduce your risk and keep you in control when unwanted calls come through.
- Protect Against Legit Callers First
It’s worth putting your number on the National Do Not Call Registry, but remember that legitimate telemarketers follow this list. Scammers don't. It's like locking your front door — it keeps the honest people honest. - Use a Removal Service
Services like DeleteMe and PrivacyBee can find and remove your personal information from websites that collect and sell your data. While these services charge a fee, they save you time by handling the complicated removal process across multiple websites at once. - Suspicious? Hang Up
If a suspicious call gets through, stay calm. Scammers rely on creating urgency and fear but remember you’re in control. Never press buttons or say "yes" when prompted — just hang up if anything feels off. That simple action is your most powerful defense. - Question “Local” Calls
Don't be fooled by familiar area codes. These days, calling IDs that show a "local" number are often just "spoofing." The call may look like it's coming from your neighborhood, but it might actually be from overseas. - Watch for Trick Questions
If you answer and hear "Can you hear me?" or similar questions fishing for a "yes," just hang up. Scammers are crafty — they often use this trick to identify who's willing to engage. The same goes for prompts asking you to "press 1 to be removed from our list." That's usually just confirming your number is active. - Use a Family Password
You might consider using a family "fraud password" that only your actual family members know. Tell everyone in your family that they must use this secret word when calling about emergencies or money. When someone calls claiming to be your grandson in trouble, simply ask, "What's our family password?" This can instantly reveal those "Grandma, I'm in jail" scam calls before you get emotionally involved. - It Happens — Here’s What to Do
If you fall victim to a scam, don't beat yourself up — it happens to smart, careful people every day. In fact, about 65% of victims experience stress, anxiety, and even depression afterward. Instead of shame, take action: document everything, change passwords immediately, and contact your financial institutions using the official numbers on your cards or statements. - Trust Your Instincts
The best defense against spam calls and robocalls is a good offense. Keep a list of important contact numbers nearby (your bank, credit bureaus, local police), and know that legitimate businesses never create emergencies to get your personal information. That sense of urgency is often the first red flag that something's not right. Take a moment to think before acting, trust your instincts, and remember it's always okay to hang up.
FAQs: How to Stop Spam Calls?
What happens if you answer a spam call?
Nothing happens immediately just by answering, but you confirm your number is active. Scammers may mark your number as "worth calling" and increase calls or try to trick you into revealing personal information or sending money.
How can I stop getting so many spam calls?
Use call-blocking apps, activate your phone company's protection features, and register with the National Do Not Call Registry. Be careful about sharing your number online and on paper forms. Consistently hanging up on suspicious callers also helps reduce calls over time.
Why am I suddenly getting so many more spam calls?
Your number may have been included in a recently leaked or sold contact list, or you might have unknowingly checked a box on a form that allows your information to be shared. Scam calls also tend to increase during tax season and holidays when scammers are particularly active.
How do I set my phone to block spam?
On Android, open the Phone app, select the menu (three dots), tap Settings > Blocked numbers, and then toggle on “Unknown.” On iPhone, go to Settings > Apps > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers and toggle it on. Your phone company and third-party apps offer additional protection options.
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