Best Apps To Block Spam Calls On Android
Some Android phones already have built-in spam protection, while dedicated apps offer additional features such as caller identification, automatic call blocking and reverse phone number lookup. Here are six apps to consider if you want to reduce unwanted calls on your Android phone.
1. Truecaller
Truecaller is a popular caller identification app that helps users identify unknown callers and recognise numbers reported for spam, scams and unwanted marketing calls.
The app displays caller information for supported numbers and provides tools for blocking individual callers or enabling automatic spam blocking. Its community-based spam database helps identify numbers reported by other users.
Truecaller offers free and paid features. Before installing it, review its permissions and privacy policy to understand how it handles your information.
2. Phone By Google
Phone by Google is a useful option for Android users who want caller identification and spam protection without installing a separate third-party app.
On supported devices, it can display warnings about suspected spam callers and filter calls identified as spam. You can also block individual numbers directly from your call history.
To enable spam protection, open the Phone app, tap the menu and select Settings, then Caller ID and spam. Turn on caller identification and spam protection. If available, enable the spam-filtering option as well.
The available features may differ depending on your phone, Android version and region.
3. Hiya
Hiya is a caller identification and spam protection app that helps users recognise suspicious numbers and manage unwanted calls.
Its features include caller identification, spam warnings, number blocking and tools for checking unfamiliar phone numbers. Some automatic blocking options require a paid subscription.
Hiya may suit users who want additional information about incoming calls before deciding whether to answer. Check its current Google Play listing for the available features, subscription requirements and device compatibility.
4. Calls Blacklist
Calls Blacklist is designed for users who want to block unwanted phone numbers and manage their own list of blocked callers.
Depending on the version, it can provide options for blocking selected numbers and restricting calls from private or hidden numbers. This can be useful when particular callers repeatedly disturb you.
However, blocking private numbers may also prevent legitimate calls from people or organisations that do not display their caller ID. Check the app's current availability and compatibility before installing it.
5. Should I Answer?
Should I Answer helps users assess unfamiliar calls using information and ratings associated with reported phone numbers.
Instead of relying only on a caller's displayed name, users can consult available reports to determine whether a number may be associated with unwanted or suspicious calls. Depending on the app's current version, additional call-blocking options may also be available.
Its usefulness depends partly on whether the number has been reported and whether information about it is available. Check the current app listing for its features, permissions and compatibility with your Android phone.
6. Call Control
Call Control is a call-blocking app designed to help users identify and manage unwanted calls. It uses reported phone numbers and spam identification features to help users recognise suspicious callers.
The app has offered tools for blocking unwanted numbers and managing calls associated with spam. The precise features available may depend on the version and platform.
Before installing Call Control, check its current Google Play listing to confirm its availability and supported features. Review its permissions and privacy information as well.
Which App Is Best For Blocking Spam Calls On Android?
Phone by Google is a good starting point if your Android phone supports its built-in spam protection. It can identify suspected spam calls and filter them without requiring you to install another app.
Truecaller is worth considering if you want more detailed caller identification alongside spam-blocking features. It can help you recognise unfamiliar numbers and manage unwanted calls, although some features may require a paid subscription.
Hiya and Should I Answer are alternatives for identifying suspicious callers, while Calls Blacklist and Call Control provide options for managing unwanted numbers. Their available features and compatibility can vary, so check their current listings before installing them.
Whichever app you choose, review its permissions and privacy policy before use. No spam blocker can identify every unwanted call, so remain cautious when answering unfamiliar numbers and never share your banking PINs or verification codes with suspicious callers.
How To Block Spam Calls On Android
You may not need to install another app to stop unwanted calls. Many Android phones allow you to block individual numbers directly through the Phone app.
Follow these steps:
- Open the Phone app on your Android phone.
- Go to Recents or your call history.
- Select the unwanted number.
- Open the call details or available options.
- Tap Block or Block number. The wording may differ between phones.
- Confirm your selection if prompted.
If your Phone app supports automatic spam filtering, open its settings and look for Caller ID and spam or a similarly named option.
You can also install a compatible call-blocking app from Google Play and follow its setup instructions to enable the features you need.
Are Spam Call Blocker Apps Safe?
Spam call blocker apps can be useful, but their privacy practices vary. Some caller identification services process phone numbers to identify callers or determine whether a number has been reported for spam.
Before installing an app, review its permissions and privacy policy to understand what information it collects, how it uses your data, whether it shares information with third parties and how it protects your personal information.
Download apps from trusted sources and avoid granting permissions that do not appear necessary for their advertised functions. You should also check whether the app requires you to make it your default phone or caller identification app to access certain features.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Is The Best Free App To Block Spam Calls On Android?
Phone by Google is a useful starting point if your device supports its built-in spam protection. Truecaller also provides free caller identification and spam-blocking features, although some advanced options require a paid subscription.
2. Can I Block Spam Calls Without Installing An App?
Yes. Many Android phones allow you to block individual numbers through the Phone app. Supported devices may also include built-in caller identification and spam filtering, which you can enable in the app's settings.
3. Do Spam Call Blocker Apps Block All Unknown Numbers?
No. Most apps distinguish between suspected spam and other unknown callers. Some provide options for blocking numbers that are not saved in your contacts, but enabling this setting may cause you to miss legitimate calls.
4. Are Spam Call Blocker Apps Safe To Use?
Most reputable spam call blocker apps can be used safely, but their privacy practices vary. Before installing one, check its permissions and privacy policy to understand what information it collects, how it uses your data, whether it shares information with third parties and how it protects your personal information.
