Getting a phone call from an unknown source can be disturbing, especially if you want to avoid scams or avoid talking to someone who is not immediately recognised. However, there are two different ways to tag these unspecified numbers on your iPhone: no caller ID and unknown caller. So, what’s the difference?
Here is a look at each tag and how to protect yourself from potential caller scams.
No caller ID and unknown caller
Tagged as “No caller ID“It means that the caller has blocked their number from appearing on your screen. In other words, they want to put their identity in the parcel state. This can be a privacy measure, but it’s also a tool used by scammers – if you can’t quickly verify that the caller is based on their number, it can be easily stuck.
“Unknown caller“On the other hand, your phone service provider does not recognize the information that appears when you make a call. This may come down to several factors, including network or technical issues, or receiving calls from foreign calls. Often, these callers do not intentionally hide their identities, but can still hide their identities with caution. However, scammers can also use this method to mask their identities by using their phone.
What to do if you receive an anonymous call
If you cannot identify the caller, you should always exercise caution. This is especially important if someone rings you and “No Caller ID” appears on the screen because they deliberately hide their number. However, an unknown caller should also be wary of, because it is difficult to really identify who is on the other side of the journey.
It is usually a good idea to get the phone to voicemail. Answer the call signal to the scammer to indicate that your phone number is active, which may lead to more similar calls. The live voicemail feature is especially useful for these situations because if the voicemail transcript indicates that this is the person you want to talk to, it allows you to answer calls.
Silent unknown caller on iPhone
You can even go a step further and silence unknown callers on your iPhone. That way, those mysterious callers won’t bother you and they’ll have to leave a voicemail for you to check later.
In your iPhone, go to set upand click application followed by Telephone Then go Silent unknown caller. Click to toggle it on.
Watch the following: Why do you get so many spam calls
Block unidentified phone calls using the app
While there is no way to block these anonymous calls in your iPhone’s settings, your wireless carrier may provide an app to help with this.
For example, AT&T ActiveArmor has a free version that blocks spam and fraudulent calls, and also blocks all unknown callers. The premium version costs $4 per month and includes tools like reverse number lookup and caller ID. ActiveArmor is available for iOS and Android.
Verizon’s Call Filter app also offers options for spam detection, spam filters and reporting numbers, all free of charge. For an extra $4 per month, you will also get caller ID, spam lookup, personal block list, and spam risk meter. In postpaid plans, Android users automatically enable CALL FILLE and use it in the App Store for iPhone.
T-Mobile’s Scam Shield has a free option that includes full caller ID, scam reporting and scam blocking. There is also an advanced option, $4 per line, which provides reverse phone number lookup and voicemail transcription that automatically text you. You can download the Scam Shield app on the App Store or Google Play.
Be sure to contact other wireless carriers to see if they offer something similar. Some wireless carrier plans may also include access to advanced features.
For more third-party apps to limit Robocalls and general tips, check out the guide on stopping spam calls.
