Simple Tricks to Filter Unwanted Calls and Messages on Your Android Device

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If it feels like scammers are calling more often than real people, it’s time to take back control. Spam calls, robocalls, and suspicious texts are not only relentless, they are frustrating, intrusive, and often deceptive. Android users are especially familiar with fake delivery alerts and unwanted credit offers. The good news? Your phone has built-in tools that make it easy to fight back.

A few quick setting tweaks can block unwanted calls and reduce spam, giving you a strong first line of defense. For even more protection, expert IT services, can secure your Android device from scammers and keep your digital life safe.

Here are 8 simple steps to help you stop the scams and reclaim some peace and quiet.

8 Smart Ways to Stop Spam Calls and Texts on Your Android

1. Block Calls Manually (The Old-School but Effective Approach)

If a number keeps calling and you’re sure it’s spam, the quickest solution is to block it manually.

Here’s how:

  • Open your Call History

  • Tap the number

  • Select “Block” or “Report Spam”

Done. That number won’t bother you again, like putting up a digital “Do Not Disturb” sign.

2. Mark Calls as Spam (Protect Yourself and Others)

Blocking is great, but reporting the number as spam takes it one step further. You’re not just protecting yourself; you’re helping improve spam filters for everyone.

To report a number:

  • Tap on the number in Call History

  • Hit “Report Spam”

The more you report, the smarter your phone becomes at blocking future spam.

3. Silence Unknown or Private Numbers

Want to avoid calls from unknown or private numbers? You can silence them so they don’t ring, but still appear in your missed calls.

To enable this:

  • Go to Phone Settings

  • Look for “Block Unknown/Private Numbers”

  • Toggle it on

4. Share or Verify Caller ID (Support the Community)

Wouldn’t it be helpful to know if a business is calling before you pick up? With Android’s Caller ID feedback, you can confirm or suggest when a number belongs to a business.

To verify or share info do this:

  • Open the Phone app

  • Tap “Recents”

  • Choose “Was this a business?” or “Caller ID feedback”

  • Follow the prompts and hit Submit

It’s quick, helpful, and makes Android’s call recognition tools better for everyone.

5. Use Built-In Caller ID and Spam Protection

Most Android phones come with spam protection already turned on by default, but it doesn’t hurt to double-check.

To verify:

  • Open Phone Settings

  • Tap “Caller ID & Spam”

  • Make sure “See caller ID” and “Filter spam calls” are enabled

This feature shows you warnings like “Potential Spam” or “Telemarketer” before you even answer. It’s your phone’s way of saying, “Don’t worry, I’ve got your back.”

6. Turn On Caller ID Announcement

This one’s for when you’re driving, cooking, or just don’t feel like looking at your phone screen. Your phone will say the caller’s name out loud.

To activate:

  • Open Phone app

  • Tap More Options > Settings > Caller ID Announcement

  • Choose when to hear it: Always, With Headset, or Never

It's a hands-free heads-up, so you’re never surprised by an unknown number again.

7. Use Call Screen (Your Personal Assistant for Calls)

Android’s Call Screen feature lets you screen calls before answering, kind of like having your own personal assistant.

When an unknown number calls, do this:

  • Tap “Screen Call”

  • Your phone asks the caller who they are and why they’re calling

  • You see a real-time transcript of their answer

Then, you can decide to pick up, hang up, or send a message. For instance:

You tap, “I’ll call you back” and they hear, “They can’t talk right now, but they’ll call you later. Thanks, goodbye.”

To set this up:

  • Go to Phone Settings > Spam and Call Screen > Call Screen

  • Choose your preferred protection level (automatic or manual)

8. Keep Your Phone Updated (Don’t Skip This Step)

Most people forget this, but keeping your phone updated is one of the best ways to fight spam. Updates often include new protection features, better spam detection, and fixes for known issues.

Quick tips:

  • Update your Google Phone app

  • Keep your Android OS up to date

  • Review and manage your blocked numbers list periodically

By staying up-to-date, you equip your phone with the latest defenses, just like IT services do for business systems.

Can You Stop Spam Calls Forever?

Not entirely, but you can cut them down significantly. By blocking spam numbers, reporting them, and using the built-in tools your Android phone offers, you’re not just protecting yourself, you’re helping improve spam detection for everyone. Each report feeds into Google’s system to refine its filter. That’s the power of user input.

Here’s how to stay ahead of the spam:

  • Always block and report spam calls when you receive them

  • Use caller ID and spam filters consistently

  • Update your phone and apps regularly

  • Use Call Screen to catch unwanted calls before they reach you

Just a few minutes of setup now can save you hours of frustration later.

Your Phone, Your Rules

You don’t have to put up with robocalls, shady texts, or unwanted interruptions. Android gives you the tools to take control, and if you ever feel stuck, BrainStomp is here to help. We offer expert IT services for individuals and businesses alike, so you can stay secure, stress-free and in control of your digital life.

Need support? Contact BrainStomp today and take the hassle out of tech.