3 Tips to Block Spam Calls and Texts

Older adults are particularly vulnerable to scams: people over 60 lose up to $36.5 billion annually from financial fraud. Here are three tips to help prevent it.

Tip 1: Filter unwanted text messages

  • To do this, go to Settings > Messages > Message Filtering and turn on Filter Unknown Senders
  • By activating this, you’ll only be able to see messages from people who aren’t in your contacts when you go to Filters > Unknown Senders
  • You also won’t be able to open any links in a message from an unknown sender

Tip 2: Download Robokiller ($40/year)

  • Many spam blockers inadvertently block important calls coming from an unknown number, like a doctor’s office or pharmacy
  • Robokiller prevents this with their Call Screening feature, which asks unknown callers to state their reason for calling and then asks you if you’d like to answer.
  • You can download it in the App Store

Tip 3: Add yourself to the Do Not Call Registry

  • The Do Not Call Registry helps screen telemarketing calls
  • You can add a number to it by clicking here or by calling 1-888-382-1222 from the phone you want to register
  • It only stops sales calls, so it’s not a complete solution; you'll still receive calls from debt collectors, surveys, and political groups