How to Block Spam Calls and Phone Blocker Tips)
- 2d
- 3 min read
Spam calls are becoming more common in Australia.
From fake delivery notifications, endless electricity discount offers, to scam “ATO” calls, unwanted phone calls can be frustrating and sometimes dangerous.
If you’re searching for:
How to block spam calls
How to stop scam calls on iPhone
Best phone blocker settings
How to block unknown numbers
How to report spam calls in Australia
This guide explains how to block spam calls step by step and protect your mobile number.
Why Am I Getting So Many Spam Calls?
Spam calls usually happen because:
Your number was entered on online forms
Your data was leaked in a breach
Random number dialling (robocalls)
Previous marketplace listings
Overseas scam operations
Blocking and filtering is the best first line of defence.
How to Block Spam Calls on iPhone
Option 1: Block a Specific Number
Open the Phone app
Tap Recents
Tap the “i” icon next to the number
Scroll down
Tap Block this Caller
That number can no longer call, text, or FaceTime you.
Option 2: Silence Unknown Callers (Very Effective)
This feature automatically silences numbers not in your contacts.
Go to Settings
Tap Phone
Select Silence Unknown Callers
Toggle it on
Calls from unknown numbers will go straight to voicemail but will still appear in your Recents list.
Important: If you enable this feature, you may miss important calls from delivery drivers, medical services, new clients, schools, or anyone not saved in your contacts.
How to Block Spam Calls on Android
Steps may vary slightly depending on brand (Samsung, Google Pixel, etc.).
Option 1: Block Individual Numbers
Open the Phone app
Tap Recent calls
Tap the number
Select Block or Report spam
Option 2: Enable Spam Protection
Most Android devices include built-in spam detection.
Open Phone app
Tap the three dots (menu)
Go to Settings
Select Caller ID & Spam
Turn on Filter spam calls
Some phones automatically warn you when a call is suspected spam.
What Is a Phone Blocker App?
A phone blocker app filters and blocks suspicious calls automatically.
Popular features include:
Spam call detection
Automatic blocking
Community-reported scam numbers
Reverse number lookup
However:
Some apps require subscription fees
Some request access to your contacts
Built-in phone settings are often sufficient
Always check privacy permissions before installing third-party apps.
How to Report Spam Calls in Australia
If you receive scam calls, you can report them to:
ACMA (Australian Communications and Media Authority)
Scamwatch
Reporting helps authorities track scam patterns.
Can My Mobile Provider Block Spam Calls?
Some mobile providers offer network-level spam filtering, but device-level protection is usually more effective.
If you’re with E.Tel, you can:
Block numbers directly on your phone
Contact support if suspicious activity persists
Change your number if necessary (in extreme cases)
A stable mobile network ensures legitimate calls still come through clearly.
How to Protect Your Number From Future Spam
Practical tips:
Avoid publishing your number publicly
Be cautious entering your number on unknown websites
Use a secondary number for online listings
Enable dual SIM if separating work and personal calls
Many Australians use a second SIM for:
Marketplace selling
Online dating
Business enquiries
Temporary projects
This reduces exposure of their primary number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do spam callers hang up immediately?
Often they are testing if your number is active.
Should I answer spam calls?
It’s better not to answer unknown numbers unless expecting a call.
Does blocking a number stop SMS too?
Yes, in most cases it blocks both calls and texts.
Can scammers spoof local numbers?
Yes. Caller ID can be faked. That’s why blocking by number alone isn’t always enough.
Final Thoughts
Blocking spam calls is easier than ever thanks to built-in iPhone and Android features.
Enable spam filtering, silence unknown callers, and block suspicious numbers immediately.
While no solution eliminates spam entirely, combining phone settings with smart habits significantly reduces unwanted calls.
If you want better control over your mobile usage, using a reliable mobile plan and potentially a secondary number can help you manage privacy more effectively. E.Tel Mobile keeps things simple. So you can stay connected without unnecessary complications.
