On most Android phones (Google Phone app)
With filtering on, calls Google believes are spam do not ring. They still show in your call history, and callers can leave a voicemail.
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap the three dots in the top right, then Settings.
- Tap Caller ID and spam. On newer versions this may be called Spam and Call Screen.
- Turn on See caller ID and spam.
- Turn on Filter spam calls.
On a Samsung Galaxy
Samsung notes that this feature may not be offered on every carrier or model. If you do not see it, check your carrier's own app.
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap the three dots, then Settings.
- Tap Caller ID and spam protection and turn it on. Tap Agree if asked.
- Turn on Block spam and scam calls.
- Choose Block all spam and scam calls, or Only block high-risk scam calls if you worry about missing real calls.
Call Screen on Pixel phones
Pixel phones can answer an unknown call for you and show you, in writing, what the caller says. You then decide whether to pick up. Look for Call Screen in the same Phone settings. Robocalls often hang up when screened.
Your carrier's free tools
- AT&T customers can use AT&T ActiveArmor.
- T-Mobile customers can use Scam Shield.
- Verizon customers can use Call Filter.
- Find them in the Google Play Store, or ask at your carrier's store for help setting one up.
A caller ID label is a clue, not a promise
A call labeled with a bank's name can still be a scammer, because caller ID can be faked. If someone says they are from your bank, hang up and call the number on the back of your card.
Stuck on a step?
Text Uncle at +1 208 214 0093 and tell him what you see on your screen. He walks you through it in plain words, one step at a time.
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Written by the Textuncle team. Last updated October 3, 2026.
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