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February 19.2026
3 Minutes Read

Silencing Spam Calls: Essential Strategies for Homeowners

Frustrated man silencing spam calls on smartphone.

Understanding the Rise of Spam Calls

As we navigate the complexities of modern technology, spam calls have emerged as a persistent irritant in our daily lives. If you find yourself increasingly bombarded by unwanted calls, you’re not alone. With advancements in AI technology, hackers and telemarketers have crafted ever more convincing and invasive methods to reach you. In fact, cybersecurity expert Shlomi Beer notes that the fraud landscape has become more sophisticated, employing AI voice bots and cloned numbers to impersonate legitimate callers, making it difficult to distinguish real from fake.

Why Am I Targeted?

Anyone with a phone number is susceptible to spam calls, but certain demographic groups are particularly targeted. Seniors, who reportedly lose over $3 billion annually to these scams, are favorites among fraudsters. However, younger and tech-savvy individuals don’t escape unscathed either, especially as personal data is easily compromised and readily available. Understanding this dynamic can aid in identifying potential threats and thwarting them before they escalate.

Best Practices for Handling Spam Calls

One key takeaway is to engage minimally with unknown callers. It’s imperative to resist the urge to correct or engage with them — stating your true bank or location can unwittingly empower scammers to craft more convincing narratives in the future. Remember, the best response to a spam call is simply to hang up.

Utilizing Built-In Phone Features

The good news is that both Android and iOS devices come equipped with robust tools to help manage unwanted calls. For instance, the iPhone offers a setting to silence unknown callers — this taps into existing contact lists to filter out spam, preventing disturbing interruptions. Meanwhile, Android devices feature a Smart Call tool to easily block high-risk numbers or any spam altogether. While these built-in features are powerful, they might lead to missing significant calls, so users must consider their options carefully.

Third-Party Spam Blocking Apps

Though effective phone settings exist, many users may wish for extra security. In such cases, numerous applications like Truecaller, Hiya, and Nomorobo can bolster defenses against spam. These apps maintain extensive databases of known scammers, transforming user-reported data into actionable intelligence. However, cybersecurity expert John Lemay observes that the built-in solutions are typically sufficient for most users, implying that third-party applications are optional but may enhance peace of mind.

Embracing Preventative Measures

Staying one step ahead of spam calls means trusting yourself to proactively adjust your settings and engage with technology that prioritizes your safety. As readers consider the potential overload of nuisance calls, they are encouraged to ensure their phone settings are optimized and explore additional protective options as desired.

Call to Action: Stay Proactive

Don’t let spam calls ruin your day! Empower your phone with the built-in tools available for your device. Dive into your phone’s settings today and discover how easy it is to put a stop to unwanted calls. If you feel the need for extra protection, consider checking out trusted third-party apps. By actively participating in safeguarding your communication, you’ll foster a healthier, less interrupted day-to-day life.

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02.20.2026

Transform Your Garden with Drought-Tolerant Plants That Thrive in Heat

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