Spam Call Blocking Guide
1. Google Phone App (Play Store):
2. Truecaller Official Website:
3. TRAI (Do Not Disturb—India DND Registry):
4. Samsung Official Support – Block Calls Guide:
5. Apple Support – Silence Unknown Callers (iPhone):
Spam Calls: How to Block Spam & Fraud Calls on Any Android Phone (2025 Guide)
Published on: August 2025
Unwanted spam calls are one of the biggest annoyances for smartphone users today. From telemarketers and robocalls to fraudsters pretending to be your bank, these interruptions waste time and can even lead to financial scams. The good news is that Android offers multiple built-in options, third-party apps, and carrier-level protections that allow you to block these calls effectively. In this 2025 updated guide, we will walk through every possible method, compare their pros and cons, and help you choose the best solution for your device.
Why Are Spam Calls Increasing?
Spam calls have become more frequent in the past decade. According to various telecom reports, billions of robocalls are placed worldwide every month. The reasons include:
- Automated dialing systems used by telemarketers
- Data leaks and number harvesting from online sources
- International scam operations targeting bank customers
- Lack of awareness among users about blocking options
In India and other Asian countries, spam calls often include fake job offers, lottery scams, insurance pitches, or bank verification requests. In Western countries, robocalls about warranties or IRS tax scams are common.
How Android Helps You Block Spam Calls
Android phones, depending on the manufacturer and version, have several built-in features to identify and block spam calls. Additionally, you can use third-party apps and official Do Not Disturb (DND) services provided by telecom operators.
Method 1: Using Google Phone App (Most Recommended)
The Google Phone app is now the default dialer on most modern Android devices. It comes with built-in spam detection powered by Google’s database.
Steps:
- Open the Phone app on your Android.
- Tap the three-dot menu > Settings.
- Go to Caller ID & Spam.
- Enable both “See Caller & Spam ID” and “Filter Spam Calls”.
Once enabled, suspected spam calls will either be identified with a red “Spam” label or blocked silently without ringing.
Method 2: Activating Do Not Disturb (DND) Services from Your Carrier
Every telecom operator (Airtel, Jio, Vi, BSNL in India, AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon in the US, etc.) provides a Do Not Disturb registry. This allows you to block all promotional calls and SMS messages.
Steps:
- In India: Send START 0 to 1909 via SMS to activate full DND.
- In the US: Register your number on the National Do Not Call Registry.
- In Europe: Most carriers allow DND activation from account portals or mobile apps.
Note: While DND reduces marketing calls, it may not completely block fraud or international spam calls.
Method 3: Truecaller & Other Third-Party Apps
Truecaller is the most popular global app for identifying unknown numbers. With over 350 million active users, it maintains a huge spam database contributed by its community.
Steps:
- Download Truecaller from Google Play Store.
- Set it as your default dialer app.
- Enable Spam Identification and Auto Blocking.
Pros: Large spam database, caller name identification. Cons: Requires internet access, collects some user data.
Method 4: Built-In OEM Call Blockers
Some manufacturers like Samsung, Xiaomi, OnePlus, Oppo, and Vivo provide their own spam detection tools:
- Samsung: Smart Call (powered by Hiya) blocks spam numbers automatically.
- Xiaomi/MIUI: Caller ID & Spam filter settings inside Security app.
- OnePlus: OxygenOS Phone app has spam detection toggle.
Method 5: Manual Blocking of Numbers
If a spammer repeatedly calls you from the same number, you can block it manually:
- Open the Phone app > Recents.
- Tap the number you want to block.
- Select Block/Report Spam.
Method 6: Using Carrier-Level Spam Filters
Many carriers now provide built-in spam filters for free or as a premium service:
- AT&T ActiveArmor (US)
- T-Mobile Scam Shield (US)
- JioCall Protect (India)
- Vodafone Call Protect (UK)
These work at the network level, meaning spam calls are stopped before they even reach your phone.
Comparison Table: Best Ways to Block Spam Calls
| Method | Effectiveness | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Phone App | High | Free, built-in, automatic spam filter | Requires updates, works best with Google data |
| DND Registry | Medium | Official, free, blocks telemarketers | Does not stop fraud calls |
| Truecaller | Very High | Community driven, caller ID, large database | Data privacy concerns, needs internet |
| OEM Call Blockers | Medium–High | Integrated in device, simple UI | Features vary by brand |
| Manual Blocking | Low | Easy to use, no extra app | Only blocks known numbers |
| Carrier Spam Filters | High | Network-level blocking | May cost extra, region-specific |
Safe Practices to Avoid Spam & Fraud
- Never share your phone number on untrusted websites.
- Do not answer calls from international codes you don’t recognize.
- Do not share OTP, PIN, or banking details with unknown callers.
- Regularly update your Phone/Truecaller app for latest spam protection.
- Report suspicious numbers to your carrier.
Future of Spam Call Blocking (AI & Beyond)
In 2025, many companies are adopting AI-based spam filters. Google, Apple, and Samsung are integrating machine learning into dialers to predict whether an unknown call is spam, based on call patterns. Telecom operators are also rolling out STIR/SHAKEN authentication protocols in the US and Europe to verify caller IDs and reduce spoofing. Over the next few years, we may see spam calls decline drastically as regulations and AI tools tighten.
Conclusion
Spam calls are frustrating but not unstoppable. Whether you rely on Google’s Phone app, Truecaller, or your carrier’s filters, Android gives you multiple layers of protection. For most users, enabling Google Phone’s spam filter + carrier DND service is the best free combination. If you want extra safety, add Truecaller or your carrier’s premium spam shield. Stay cautious, avoid unknown calls, and always remember: no bank or government agency will ever ask for your OTP or PIN over the phone.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. Features may vary slightly depending on your phone brand, Android version, and telecom provider. Always verify with your official carrier or device support.
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