How to stop robocalls: a layered plan that actually works

There's no single switch that stops robocalls, because the worst ones come from people already breaking the law. What works is layers: each one catches what the last one missed. Set these up once and most of the noise goes away.

Layer 1: Register on the Do Not Call list

Add your cell and home numbers to the National Do Not Call Registry at donotcall.gov or by calling 1-888-382-1222 from the phone you want to register. It's free and never expires. It won't stop scammers, but it removes legitimate telemarketers, which makes the illegal calls easier to spot: any sales call after 31 days is breaking the rules. Details in our Do Not Call Registry guide.

Layer 2: Turn on your carrier's free filter

The big three wireless carriers all have free spam protection that works at the network level, before the call reaches you:

• Verizon Call Filter: free version flags suspected spam and can send high-risk calls to voicemail.
• AT&T ActiveArmor: free app that blocks suspected fraud calls and labels spam.
• T-Mobile Scam Shield: free; turn on Scam Block in the T-Life app or by dialing #662#.

Smaller carriers and prepaid brands often have their own version, so check their website or ask support. Landline and internet phone providers may offer blocking too.

Layer 3: Screen or silence unknown callers

This is the single biggest improvement for most people:

• iPhone: Settings > Apps > Phone > Screen Unknown Callers. Choose Ask Reason for Calling to have the phone ask strangers who they are before it rings, or Silence to send them to voicemail.
• Pixel: Phone app > Settings > Spam and Call Screen, and set Call Screen to handle unknown numbers automatically.
• Samsung: Phone app > Settings > Caller ID and spam protection, and choose how strictly to block spam.

Robocalls almost never get past a screening prompt, while real people simply say who they are. Step-by-step instructions are in how to block numbers.

Layer 4: Answer smart (or not at all)

• Never press 1 to "speak to an operator" or press any key to "be removed from our list." The FTC warns this can lead to more robocalls, because it tells the dialer a real person is on the line.
• Hang up on recordings. If a sales call is a recording and you never gave that company written permission, the call is already illegal.
• Don't answer questions. No "yes," no confirming your name or address.
• Don't call back numbers that hang up after one ring. See the one-ring scam.

Layer 5: Consider a call-blocking app

Apps such as Hiya, Nomorobo, RoboKiller and YouMail compare incoming calls against databases of reported numbers. Some are free, some charge monthly. Before installing one, read the privacy policy, because some ask for access to your contacts. The industry group CTIA keeps a list of call-blocking apps at ctia.org.

Layer 6: Keep your number off the lists

Robocallers buy lists. Every time you enter your number for a contest, a "free quote," a warranty card or a shopping discount, read the fine print. Many forms include consent to calls and texts from "partners." Leave the phone field blank where you can.

What is STIR/SHAKEN, in plain English?

STIR/SHAKEN is a technical standard that lets phone companies digitally "sign" a call to vouch for the caller ID. Under the TRACED Act, the FCC required voice providers to use it on the internet-based parts of their networks, with a main deadline of June 30, 2021. When it works, your carrier can tell whether the number on your screen is real, and some phones show a check mark or "Verified" label.

It isn't perfect. Signed calls can still be unwanted, some older networks can't pass the signature along, and calls routed from overseas often arrive unverified. Treat "Verified" as "this number is probably real," not "this caller is honest."

Common questions

Why am I suddenly getting more robocalls?

Usually because your number landed on a new list, whether from a data breach, a web form, or because you answered or pressed a key on an earlier call. Silencing unknown callers for a few months often makes your number less valuable to dialers.

Are any robocalls legal?

Some are: informational calls like appointment reminders or school closures, and certain political calls. Sales robocalls generally need your prior written permission.

Where do I report a robocall?

To the FTC at donotcall.gov, and to the FCC. See where to report scam calls.