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Scam Calls

Receiving calls labeled “Scam Likely” or “Potential Scam” has become an all-too-common frustration for iPhone users. These calls interrupt your day, waste your time, and can potentially expose you to fraud. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to block these unwanted calls, both through your iPhone’s built-in features and carrier-specific services.

Understanding “Scam Likely” Labels

The “Scam Likely” label appears when your carrier’s system identifies an incoming call as potentially fraudulent based on call patterns, reported numbers, and other detection methods. This feature has created excitement among mobile users who want to avoid calls with nefarious intent.

iPhone Built-in Blocking Features

Method 1: Block Individual Numbers

When you receive a “Scam Likely” call:

  1. Go to your Phone app and tap “Recents”
  2. Find the scam call in your call history
  3. Tap the “i” icon next to the number
  4. Scroll down and tap “Block this Caller”
  5. Confirm by tapping “Block Contact”

Method 2: Enable Silence Unknown Callers

Apple provides a comprehensive solution through the “Silence Unknown Callers” feature:

  1. Go to Settings > Phone
  2. Toggle on “Silence Unknown Callers”
  3. Unknown callers will be sent directly to voicemail

This feature allows calls from numbers in your contacts, recent calls, and Siri suggestions to ring through while blocking unknown numbers.

Carrier-Specific Solutions

T-Mobile and Sprint Users

T-Mobile and Sprint customers see “Scam Likely” calls most frequently, but they also have access to T-Mobile’s Scam Block service. To activate:

  • Dial #662# to enable Scam Block
  • Dial #632# to disable if needed
  • This service automatically blocks known scam numbers before they reach your phone

Verizon

Verizon offers Call Filter:

  • Download the Call Filter app from the App Store
  • Basic version is free and identifies spam calls
  • Premium version ($2.99/month) blocks spam calls automatically

AT&T

AT&T provides Call Protect:

  • Download AT&T Call Protect from the App Store
  • Free version includes automatic fraud blocking
  • Plus version ($3.99/month) offers additional features like reverse number lookup

Advanced Protection Tips

Third-Party Apps

Consider apps like:

  • Hiya
  • RoboKiller
  • Truecaller
  • Nomorobo

These apps use crowdsourced databases to identify and block known scam numbers.

Best Practices for Personal Security

When dealing with scam calls, it’s important to follow best practices to keep your personal information safe:

  1. Never answer calls from unknown numbers if possible
  2. Don’t provide personal information over the phone
  3. Hang up immediately if you suspect a scam
  4. Report scam calls to the FTC at 1-888-382-1222

What to Do If You Accidentally Answer

If you answer a “Scam Likely” call:

  • Hang up immediately without engaging
  • Don’t press any numbers or say “yes”
  • Block the number afterward
  • Report it to your carrier by forwarding to 7726 (SPAM)

The Limitations

While these methods significantly reduce scam calls, they’re not 100% foolproof. Scammers constantly change numbers and tactics, so some calls may still get through. The key is using multiple layers of protection.

Conclusion

Getting rid of “scam likely” calls requires a multi-pronged approach. Combining your iPhone’s built-in features with your carrier’s spam protection services and third-party apps provides the best defense against unwanted calls. Remember that while these tools are highly effective, staying vigilant and never sharing personal information with unknown callers remains your best protection against phone scams.

By implementing these carrier-specific solutions and iPhone features, you can significantly reduce the number of scam calls reaching your device and enjoy greater peace of mind when your phone rings.

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