How to Block Spam Calls and Texts (iPhone and Android)

Quick answer: Start with built-in blocking (block the number, screen unknown callers), then enable spam protection where available, then add a reputable call-blocking solution if spam volume is high. Don’t press buttons to “opt out” on robocalls—just hang up.

This is a practical “reduce the noise” guide. It won’t block 100% of spam, but it can cut interruptions sharply when you combine a few simple steps.

Step 1: Block the Worst Repeat Offenders

If you keep seeing the same number, block it.

iPhone: Block a caller

Use iPhone call blocking tools to block specific callers and manage unknown callers.

Android (Phone by Google): Block a number

If you use the Phone by Google app, it supports blocking and unblocking specific numbers.

Start here because it is fast, and it instantly removes repeat spam from your day.

Step 2: Turn on Spam Protection / Call Screening (When Available)

If your phone supports it, spam protection can label suspected spam and reduce what gets through.

• On Android with Phone by Google, you can enable caller ID and spam protection features where supported.
• On iPhone, features like screening/silencing unknown callers can reduce interruptions, but you may need to review the tradeoff: you could miss legitimate calls from numbers not in your contacts.

Keep the goal clear: fewer interruptions, not a perfect filter.

Step 3: Stop Spam Texts by Blocking and Reporting

Spam texts are often easier to control than calls if you consistently block/report.

Android: Google Messages

In Google Messages, you can block a sender and report spam.

iPhone: Filter and screen unknown senders

iPhone has options to screen and filter text messages from unknown senders.

If you get frequent spam texts, this is one of the highest-value settings changes you can make.

Step 4: Use a Call-Blocking App (If Spam Volume Is High)

If you’re getting spam from constantly changing numbers, blocking one-by-one won’t scale. A call-blocking app or a carrier’s spam-filtering service can help by acting like a filter.

When choosing one:

• Prefer well-known providers.
• Review permissions carefully.
• If an app feels pushy or scammy, remove it.

Step 5: Avoid the Two Mistakes That Make Spam Worse

1. Don’t press buttons to “unsubscribe” from robocalls. That often confirms your number is active.
2. Don’t engage in arguments. Short, boring behavior works best: don’t answer, or hang up immediately.

Related Guides

Spam control works best when the phone is already simple to use:

• [How to make your phone easier to read](/en/make-phone-easier-to-read/)
• [Password tips for older adults](/en/password-tips-for-older-adults/)
• [Easy tech skills for older adults](/en/easy-tech-skills-for-older-adults/)

What a Helpful Image Should Show

Show a calm checklist: block number → turn on spam protection → block/report spam texts, plus one reminder: “don’t press buttons to opt out on robocalls”.

Editorial Check Before Publishing

After reading, the reader should know:

• The first fast fixes (block numbers, filter unknowns).
• Where spam protection lives on their platform.
• How to block/report spam texts.
• The behavior habits that keep spam from getting worse.

Reader Takeaway

Blocking spam is a system, not a single setting. Start with blocking, add spam protection, and only then add apps/services if the spam volume demands it.

Why This Page Is Different

Most spam advice is either too technical or too vague. This page is designed as a simple sequence you can apply in ten minutes and re-check every few months.

Sources

• FTC: How to block unwanted calls
• Apple Support: Screen and block calls on iPhone
• Apple Support: Screen and filter text messages on iPhone
• Google Phone app Help: Block or unblock a phone number
• Google Phone app Help: Use caller ID & spam protection
• Google Messages Help: Block senders & report spam