In today's digital age, unwanted calls have become an increasingly common nuisance. From telemarketers and scammers to persistent robocalls, these interruptions can disrupt our daily lives. Fortunately, Android devices offer a range of tools to help you take control of your incoming calls and protect your peace of mind.
Before well dive into specific steps, it's important to know that the availability and exact features of call screening may vary slightly depending on your Android device and the version of Android you're using. However, the core principles remain consistent.
Key Features to Look For:
Caller ID and Spam Identification: This feature helps you identify potential spam or scam calls before you answer.
Call Screening: This allows you to have your phone automatically answer calls and screen them, providing you with a transcript of the conversation.
Blocking Numbers: This feature lets you block specific numbers to prevent them from reaching you.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Identifying Spam Calls
Using a Pixel or Other Android Phone
When a call comes in that isn't from a number in your contacts, the Google Phone app preinstalled on Pixel phones can send it to Google for checking. (If you're not on a Pixel phone, you can still install the app on other Android phones.) Google says it "gathers various signals about the call" during the check — which I presume means cross-referencing it against a database of numbers that have been reported as spam.
Spotting Scam Calls in Advance
Google Phone app showing spam call notification
You can spot spam calls in advance. Screenshot: Google
Blocking a Spam Caller
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Google Phone app showing option to block a number
You can decide whether to block the number. Screenshot: Google
On most phones, the feature will be enabled by default. To check its status from the Phone app:
- Tap the three dots (top right).
- Choose Settings.
- Tap Caller ID & spam.
- If See caller and spam ID is off, toggle it on.
- Turn on Filter spam calls if you want to send suspected spam calls straight to voicemail without disturbing you. (According to Google, if your phone has the automatic Call Screen feature, you won't see this option. I explain more about Call Screen below.)
Using a Galaxy Phone
If you're on a Samsung phone and would rather stick with the built-in Samsung Phone app, there's a similar feature called Smart Call. From the Phone app:
- Open the Keypad tab.
- Tap the three dots (top right).
- Choose Settings.
- Select Caller ID and spam protection.
- Turn on the toggle switch at the top of the next screen.
That will warn you about scam or fraud calls as they come in (in partnership with Hiya).
2. Blocking Unwanted Numbers
Blocking a Number
Open the recent calls list.
Tap the number you want to block.
Select "Block number."
Blocking Multiple Numbers
Some carriers offer blocking services that allow you to block multiple numbers at once. Check with your carrier for specific instructions.
3. Using Call Screening
Google Pixel Devices
If your device supports Call Screen, you'll see an option to screen a call when it comes in. The AI will answer the call and transcribe the conversation in real-time. You can choose to answer the call, decline it, or send a custom message.
Other Android Devices
While not all devices have built-in call screening, you can consider third-party apps from the Google Play Store that offer similar functionality.
Additional Tips
Keep Your Phone's Software Updated: Ensure you have the latest Android version and security patches to benefit from the latest features and security improvements.
Use a Reliable Caller ID App: If your device's built-in features aren't sufficient, consider using a third-party caller ID app to identify and block unwanted calls.
Be Cautious of Unknown Numbers: If you receive a call from an unknown number, exercise caution. Avoid sharing personal information or clicking on links sent via text messages or voicemails.
By following these steps and taking advantage of the powerful call screening features available on Android devices, you can significantly reduce the number of unwanted calls and protect yourself from potential scams.
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