Robocalls are hard to eliminate completely, but you can usually reduce them dramatically by combining three layers of defense: (1) phone settings, (2) carrier-level blocking, and (3) smart habits for unknown callers. Follow the steps below in order—each one adds protection.

1) Start with your phone’s built-in call filtering

On iPhone (iOS)

  • Turn on Silence Unknown Callers: Go to Settings → Phone → Silence Unknown Callers → turn it on. Calls from numbers not in your contacts, recent outgoing calls, or Siri Suggestions will go to voicemail.
  • Use Call Blocking & Identification: Go to Settings → Phone → Call Blocking & Identification. If you install a reputable call-filtering app, enable it here so iOS can label or block suspected spam.
  • Block repeat offenders: In the Phone app → Recents, tap the i next to the number → Block this Caller.

On Android (steps vary by device)

  • Enable Caller ID & spam protection (Google Phone): Open the Phone app → Settings → Caller ID & spam → turn on spam protection and caller ID.
  • Block spam calls automatically: In many versions: Phone → Settings → Blocked numbers (or Call blocking) → enable blocking for unknown/suspected spam where available.
  • Block a specific number: Phone → Recent calls → select the number → Block/Report spam.

2) Turn on your carrier’s anti-spam tools

Most major carriers offer free or low-cost spam blocking and caller-ID services that work before your phone even rings. Log in to your carrier account (app or website) and look for features like Spam Shield, Call Filter, or Scam Block. Enable:

  • Spam/scam call blocking
  • Suspected spam labeling
  • Unknown caller controls (when offered)

Why this matters: Carrier tools can stop many spoofed or mass-dialed calls upstream, which is often more effective than blocking one number at a time.

3) Use a reputable call-blocking app (optional but effective)

If robocalls remain heavy, consider a well-known call screening app that maintains a large spam database. Install it, then:

  • Allow call identification/blocking permissions.
  • Set it to block high-risk spam and send suspected spam to voicemail (if available).
  • Review the app’s blocked-call log occasionally to avoid missing legitimate calls (e.g., doctors’ offices using new numbers).

4) Tighten your habits to reduce future spam

  • Don’t answer unknown numbers if you can avoid it. Let them leave voicemail. Answering can signal your number is active.
  • Never confirm personal info to an unexpected caller (even if they claim to be your bank, a delivery service, or the government). Hang up and call back using the official number from a website or card.
  • Avoid pressing buttons (“Press 1 to be removed”). This can increase calls or route you to more lists.
  • Limit where you share your number online, in sweepstakes, and on unfamiliar checkout pages.

5) Register and report (it helps over time)

  • Register your number on the Do Not Call list (where applicable in your country). It won’t stop illegal scammers, but it can reduce legitimate telemarketing.
  • Report spam calls in your phone app (Android commonly supports “Report spam”), and report persistent offenders to your carrier and relevant consumer protection authority.
  • Save evidence: Keep dates, times, and numbers (even if spoofed) in case your carrier requests details.

6) If robocalls are extreme: consider stronger measures

  • Change your number (last resort). Ask your carrier about any fees and whether they can apply enhanced spam controls to the new line from day one.
  • Use a secondary number (e.g., for online forms). This can keep your primary number cleaner.
  • Turn on voicemail transcription and screening so you can quickly identify legitimate missed calls without answering unknown numbers.

Quick checklist

  • Enable iPhone Silence Unknown Callers / Android spam protection.
  • Activate carrier spam blocking and spam labeling.
  • Block/report repeat numbers and suspicious calls.
  • Stop answering unknown calls; verify via official channels.
  • Register on Do Not Call and report persistent spam.

If you want, tell me your device model (iPhone or which Android brand) and your carrier, and I can map the exact menu path for your version.