How to block scam calls on any mobile device

Mobile users have seen a spike in scam calls and text messages recently, especially since the beginning of Covid-19. The most recent nationwide scam comes after Scamwatch issued a warning in October of a ‘Flubot message’. The scam sent out a text message to thousands of unsuspecting Australians that misled them into clicking an ‘opt-out’ link. People commonly ask how they can block scam calls on any mobile phone.  So we’ve created a set of instructions below.

Sick of receiving #scam texts? #Flubot scammers know their constant stream of messages is frustrating & so they’ve come up with this new #scam trick to make you want to click the link. Clicking this link will download Flubot, not stop messages. Delete these texts! pic.twitter.com/M6D4UCS74x

— Scamwatch_gov_au (@Scamwatch_gov) October 14, 2021

Scam calls and text messages are often frustrating, and sometimes dangerous, to deal with, especially if you are receiving them multiple times a day. However, not only can you block scam callers, but there are a few ways to spot them before answering or second-guessing yourself.

The easiest way to spot scammers is if the call or text is from what you think is a legitimate business or government department, like the ATO. Usually, these departments will let you know that they are calling you, so if anyone tries to call you randomly in these sectors, it is most likely fake. You should also take note of the time of day or if the caller is offering you a large sum of money. Most legitimate businesses won’t call you at late hours.

WARNING: Scammers are impersonating the Australian Tax Office @ato_gov_au & sending #scam texts saying you are due a refund. All reports so far refer to a $3742.11 refund. ATO never send texts or emails with links to log on directly to online services. Delete these messages! pic.twitter.com/AJ1PjIMj4h

— Scamwatch_gov_au (@Scamwatch_gov) October 5, 2021

Now that you know some of the key red flags of a scam call, there are things you can do to ensure you don’t receive these calls as often.

Before we explain how to block scam callers, you can add your phone number to the ‘Do Not Call’ register, which is a free service that is regulated by the Australian Government. The register helps to reduce the number of unsolicited telemarketing calls. However, this register won’t stop you from getting calls from every scam number, including a number that is repeatedly calling you.

With that said, if you don’t have time to deal with scam callers, here are some easy ways to block them on any mobile device.

How to block callers on an iPhone

Step 1. Open the Phone application and tap Recents

Step 2. Tap the info icon next to the number you want to block

Step 3. Tap Block this Caller and then Block Contact

How to block unidentified numbers on an iPhone

Note: these specific steps will only work on iPhones with an iOS software update of 13 or later.

Step 1. Open Settings and tap Phone

Step 2. Scroll down and tap Silence Unknown Callers

This feature blocks all unknown numbers that aren’t saved in your contact list.

How to block callers on an Android

Each Android device is different, so the steps to blocking a number will consequently be different, so keep this in mind.

Step 1. Open the Phone application

Step 2. Select Recent Calls or Call History

Step 3. Find the command that says Block and/or Report as Spam 

How to block unidentified numbers on an Android

Step 1. Open the Phone application and enter the Settings menu

Step 2. Find the option Blocking Numbers and turn it on

If you still have trouble with incoming scam calls, you could most likely speak to your phone provider to see if there’s anything else you can do.