How to Protect Yourself from Spam and Scam Calls and Texts: A Comprehensive Guide

Have you been receiving frequent scam phone calls and spam texts, even after blocking over 100 numbers? You are not alone. With the rise of the pandemic and increased use of mobile devices, spam calls and texts have become more common than ever. But fear not, as we are here to provide you with a detailed guide on how to protect yourself from these annoyances.

Understanding the Problem

Spam calls and texts can be extremely frustrating, and they often come in various forms. These unwanted calls and texts can be from telemarketers, automated (robo) calls, or even scammers posing as legitimate entities. The good news is that Google offers several features and methods to help you protect yourself against these unwanted communications.

Methods to Block Spam Calls and Texts

Google provides two features specifically designed to help Android users manage spam calls: Caller ID and spam protection. These features are enabled by default, but you can always customize them according to your needs. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to enable these features on your Android smartphone:

Enabling Caller ID and Spam Protection Features

Open the Phone app on your Android smartphone. Click on the “more” option. Tap on the Settings button. Tap on the Spam and Call Screen option. Turn on the See caller spam ID option if it is turned off.

For Android users, there are additional steps you can take to mark calls as spam and block them manually:

Open the Phone app. Tap on the call you want to report as spam. Select the “Block call” option. Note: This action will block the call from all your devices, making it an effective way to handle persistent unwanted calls.

For those who are tech-savvy, another approach is to download a reputable call-blocking app. These apps can help you block calls that do not appear in your contact list, offering an additional layer of protection.

Additional Tips to Stay Safe from Scam Calls and Texts

Aside from technology, there are practical steps you can take to protect yourself from scam calls and texts:

Do Not Answer Unfamiliar Numbers: If you don’t recognize the number, don’t answer it. Let it go to voicemail, and if necessary, check the number later to see if it is from a legitimate source. Verify Unwanted Texts: If you receive an unsolicited text message, do not engage with it. Instead, research the sender and check if it is a known scam. Use reputable online resources or contact your local authorities for assistance. Regularly Check Your Call Logs: Review your call logs to identify any patterns or numbers that are spammy. This can help you stay vigilant and potentially block numbers before they become problematic.

In conclusion, the rise of spam calls and texts during the pandemic has prompted many individuals to seek ways to protect themselves. With the aid of Google’s built-in features, a few basic steps, and some common sense, you can significantly reduce the number of unwanted calls and texts you receive. Stay vigilant and stay safe!