How to Block and Report Spam Calls
3 min read
Blocking stops a specific number from reaching you; reporting helps regulators go after the operations behind mass robocalls. Do both.
Step by step
- 1Block on iPhone
Open the Phone app → Recents → tap the ⓘ next to the number → scroll down → Block this Caller.
- 2Block on Android
Open the Phone app → Recents → press and hold the number (or tap it) → Block / report spam. The exact wording varies by phone.
- 3Report to the FTC
Report unwanted and scam calls at reportfraud.ftc.gov (or donotcall.gov for Do-Not-Call violations). Include the number and what the call was about.
- 4Report spoofing/robocalls to the FCC
File a complaint at fcc.gov/complaints for illegal robocalls and caller-ID spoofing. Your reports feed the data regulators and carriers use to block offenders.
Tips
- Reporting takes two minutes and genuinely helps — the FTC's data feeds the tools that block these numbers network-wide.
- Note the date, time, and what the caller claimed; it makes your report more useful.
- Block, then look up similar numbers — scam campaigns often rotate through a range.
Frequently asked questions
Does blocking a spam number actually stop the calls?
It stops that specific number, but spammers rotate numbers, so blocking works best alongside carrier filtering and silencing unknown callers.
Where do I report a scam call?
Report scams and unwanted calls to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov, and illegal robocalls or spoofing to the FCC at fcc.gov/complaints.
Will reporting a call get my money back?
Reporting helps authorities act but doesn't directly refund you. If you lost money, contact your bank immediately and report it to the FTC.