How to Stop Robocalls and Spam Texts

Tired of fake car warranty calls and package delivery texts? Combine these free tools and settings to dramatically cut down unwanted calls and messages.

Americans receive billions of robocalls every year, and scam text messages have become just as common. While no single tool blocks everything, combining a few free steps can make a big difference — and knowing how scams work keeps you safe from the ones that slip through.

1. Join the National Do Not Call Registry

Register your home and mobile numbers at DoNotCall.gov or by calling 1-888-382-1222 from the phone you want to register. It's free, and your registration doesn't expire.

The registry stops calls from legitimate telemarketers, which means any sales call you receive after your number has been on the list for 31 days is likely from a company breaking the law — or a scammer. It doesn't stop political calls, charities, surveys, debt collectors, or companies you already do business with. Scammers ignore it entirely, so you'll need the steps below too.

2. Turn on your phone's built-in protection

• iPhone: Settings → Phone → Silence Unknown Callers sends calls from numbers not in your contacts, recent calls or Siri suggestions straight to voicemail. Newer iOS versions also include call screening options that ask unknown callers for their name and reason for calling.
• Android (Google Phone app): Open the Phone app's settings and turn on Caller ID & spam protection and, where available, Call Screen, which can automatically screen likely spam calls. Samsung phones have similar options in the Phone app settings.
• Messages: Both iPhone and Android can filter texts from unknown senders into a separate list.

3. Use your carrier's free blocking tools

Major U.S. carriers offer free apps or services that label or block suspected spam calls, with optional paid upgrades:

• AT&T: ActiveArmor
• T-Mobile: Scam Shield
• Verizon: Call Filter

Check your carrier's app or website to turn these on; some protections are already active by default.

4. Report spam texts to 7726

Forward unwanted text messages to 7726 (which spells "SPAM"). This free service, supported by major U.S. carriers, helps them identify and block spam. Many phones also have a "Report junk" option right in the messaging app.

5. Report illegal calls

Report unwanted sales calls and robocalls to the Federal Trade Commission at DoNotCall.gov, and scams at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. You can also file a complaint with the Federal Communications Commission. Your reports help regulators track down and act against illegal callers.

How to handle a suspicious call or text

• Don't answer calls from numbers you don't recognize. Legitimate callers can leave a voicemail.
• Don't press any buttons — not even "press 1 to be removed." That just confirms your number is active.
• Don't click links in unexpected texts about packages, tolls, bank alerts or prizes. These "smishing" messages lead to fake sites designed to steal your information or money.
• Don't trust caller ID. Scammers can fake ("spoof") any number, including real government agencies and local numbers.
• Hang up and call back using a number you know is real — from your card, statement or the official website.

Common scams to know

• Fake package delivery and unpaid toll texts
• "Your Social Security number has been suspended" calls
• Car warranty and debt relief robocalls
• Bank fraud alerts asking you to "verify" a code sent to your phone
• "Wrong number" texts that turn into friendly conversations and later investment pitches

If you've already responded to a scam

Contact your bank or card company right away if you shared financial information or sent money. Change any passwords you gave out, and if you shared personal details like your Social Security number, follow our guide on what to do if your identity is stolen.