Tired of endless spam calls and sketchy text messages? You’re not alone. Spam is one of the most frustrating digital annoyances today. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to block spam calls and texts on both Android and iPhone, using built-in features, third-party apps, and smart settings to take back your peace and privacy.
How to Block Spam Calls and Messages on Your Phone
Whether it’s a robocall offering fake prizes or a shady text asking for your credit card, spam calls and messages are more than just annoying — they’re a privacy risk. According to recent data, Americans received over 50 billion robocalls last year alone.
The good news? You can fight back. From built-in tools on your phone to powerful spam-blocking apps, here’s everything you need to know to block spam calls and keep your phone clean and quiet.
📱 Why You’re Getting So Many Spam Calls and Texts
Before we get into how to block them, it helps to know why you’re getting spammed in the first place:
- Data breaches: Your number may be floating around on leaked lists from past hacks.
- Online forms: Signing up for services or giveaways often comes with fine-print consent.
- Robocallers guessing numbers: They use auto-dialers that try random combinations.
- Apps that sell data: Free apps sometimes sell your phone number to advertisers.
🎯 Tip: Learn how to protect your personal data in our cybersecurity section.
🛡️ How to Block Spam Calls on iPhone
Apple has built-in tools that make it easy to block and silence spam.
1. Silence Unknown Callers
This iOS feature sends all calls from numbers not in your contacts straight to voicemail.
- Go to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers
- Toggle it ON
📌 Note: You’ll still see the calls in your call log, but your phone won’t ring.
2. Block Specific Numbers
- Open Phone app
- Tap Recents
- Tap the info (ℹ️) icon next to the number
- Scroll down and tap Block this Caller
3. Report Spam Messages
- In the Messages app, if Apple detects spam, it’ll show a “Report Junk” option.
- Tap it to report and delete the message.
🤖 How to Block Spam Calls on Android
Android devices vary a bit by manufacturer, but most have spam-blocking features built in.
1. Enable Caller ID & Spam Protection
- Open Phone app
- Tap three-dot menu > Settings > Caller ID & Spam
- Turn ON “Filter spam calls” or “See caller & spam ID”
2. Block Numbers Manually
- Open the Phone app
- Tap Recents
- Tap and hold the number > Tap Block/report spam
3. Report Spam Texts
- Open the Messages app
- Tap and hold the spam message
- Tap the three-dot menu > Block > Report Spam
🎯 Need more privacy tips? Check our privacy tools guide.
📲 Best Spam Blocker Apps for Extra Protection
Sometimes, built-in tools aren’t enough. These third-party spam blocker apps take things to the next level.
1. Hiya
- Available on iOS and Android
- Identifies spam and robocallers in real-time
- Blocks calls and texts from known scam numbers
2. Truecaller
- Global spam caller database
- Community-based reporting
- Call recording, number search, and smart blocking
3. Robokiller
- Uses AI to answer spam calls with bots (and waste their time)
- Auto-blocking and customizable filters
- Premium version includes text protection
4. Nomorobo
- Great for landlines and mobile
- Real-time protection from robocalls and political spam
- Blocks known scammers automatically
📌 These apps often offer free basic plans, with advanced features in paid versions.
🧰 Pro Tips to Prevent Spam in the First Place
Blocking is good, but prevention is even better. Follow these tips to reduce the chances of getting spammed again.
✅ Don’t Answer Unknown Numbers
- If it’s important, they’ll leave a voicemail.
- Answering tells spammers your number is active.
✅ Don’t Click Links in Spam Texts
- These may install malware or steal your info.
- Delete suspicious texts immediately.
✅ Use a Secondary Number for Signups
- Use Google Voice or a burner number for forms, contests, or online shopping.
✅ Register for the Do Not Call List
- In the U.S., go to donotcall.gov and add your number.
- Reduces legal telemarketing calls (though spammers may ignore it).
✅ Avoid Suspicious Apps
- Stick to apps from trusted developers and check reviews.
- Apps with too many permissions may leak your number.
🎯 Stay protected with more tools in our hacking & privacy section.
🧩 What to Do If You’re Already Flooded With Spam
If spam calls or texts become overwhelming:
- Change your number (last resort)
- Report spam to your carrier (many have built-in tools)
- AT&T: Text spam messages to 7726
- Verizon: Forward spam to 7726
- T-Mobile: Use the Scam Shield app
- File a complaint with the FCC at fcc.gov/complaints
🚫 Final Thoughts
It’s 2025, and while smartphones are smarter than ever, spam calls and messages are still a daily digital headache. Thankfully, you now have a toolbox full of ways to fight back — from silencing unknown callers to using AI-powered spam blockers.
Whether you’re using iPhone, Android, or an old flip phone (respect), there’s a solution that fits your needs. Don’t let spammers steal your time, attention, or data. Take control, block them out, and enjoy your phone again.
