Skip to main content

What technology can help me manage unsolicited texts and calls?

What technology can help me manage unsolicited texts and calls?

Find Help

More Items From Ergsy search


Technology to Manage Unsolicited Texts and Calls

Identifying the Problem of Unsolicited Contacts

Unsolicited texts and calls can be extremely disruptive. They range from annoying telemarketing tactics to potential scams.

In the UK, it's vital to know your options to combat these unwanted interactions. Technology offers several solutions to help manage these nuisances effectively.

Call Blocking Apps

Call blocking apps are popular tools in handling unwanted calls. They identify and block spam calls based on a database of known numbers.

Apps like Truecaller and Hiya are available in the UK. They can provide real-time protection by filtering out known spammers.

Utilising Mobile Network Features

Most major UK mobile networks offer built-in features to block unwanted calls and texts. For instance, EE and Vodafone include call screening services.

Customers can often activate these features through their mobile network's app or by contacting customer service directly. This can add an extra layer of protection.

Use of Built-in Smartphone Features

Modern smartphones come with built-in features for managing unwanted contact. On iPhones, users can silence unknown callers through settings.

Android offers a similar feature where unwanted calls can be automatically sent to voicemail. Both platforms allow users to manually block specific numbers.

Registering with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS)

The Telephone Preference Service (TPS) is a free service in the UK. It allows individuals to opt out of receiving unsolicited sales and marketing calls.

Registering with TPS can help reduce the number of nuisance calls. However, it may not affect texts or calls from overseas numbers.

Reporting Spam and Scams

Reporting spam texts and calls is vital in combating these intrusions. Most mobile phones in the UK have an option to report spam contacts.

Additionally, reporting can be done through various apps and services. This information helps update databases and strengthens call and text-blocking technologies.

Conclusion

Dealing with unsolicited texts and calls requires a multi-faceted approach. Using a combination of apps, network services, and phone features can significantly reduce these nuisances.

Staying informed about the latest technologies and services is crucial. This ensures a more peaceful and uninterrupted mobile experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What technology helps block unsolicited texts?

Many smartphones have built-in text blocking features. Additionally, apps like Truecaller and RoboKiller can help filter and block unwanted texts.

How can I block unwanted calls on my smartphone?

Most smartphones have call blocking features in their settings. There are also apps like Hiya, Mr. Number, and Nomorobo which can block unwanted calls.

Does Do Not Disturb mode block unsolicited calls and texts?

Do Not Disturb mode can silence all calls and texts, but it does not necessarily block them. You can set exceptions for specific contacts.

Can my service provider help block spam messages?

Yes, many carriers offer services to block spam messages. Contact your service provider for options available with your plan.

What are spam filters for text messages?

Spam filters use algorithms to identify and block messages that appear to be unsolicited or spam, preventing them from reaching your inbox.

Are there specific apps to manage and block marketing calls?

Yes, apps like RoboKiller and Truecaller can specifically target marketing calls and prevent them from reaching you.

How can I report unsolicited texts or calls?

You can report spam texts and calls to your carrier and also register your number on the National Do Not Call Registry if you're in the U.S.

Do all blocking apps work internationally?

Not all apps work in every country, so it's best to check the app's compatibility and availability for your location.

Can virtual assistants help block spam calls?

Yes, virtual assistants like Google Assistant and Siri can help block specific numbers upon request but rely on your phone's call blocking features.

What is STIR/SHAKEN technology?

STIR/SHAKEN is a suite of protocols and procedures designed to improve caller ID verification and help prevent robocalls and spoofing.

How does Truecaller identify spam numbers?

Truecaller uses a large database of reported spam numbers contributed by its user community to identify and block spam calls and texts.

Will blocking apps affect legitimate calls and texts?

While rare, some blocking apps might wrongly identify legitimate calls as spam. Always review settings and whitelist important contacts.

Can I block calls and texts from unknown numbers?

Yes, most smartphones and call-blocking apps allow you to block calls and texts from numbers not in your contacts list.

What does the term 'spoofing' mean in telecommunication?

Spoofing refers to a caller falsifying the information transmitted to your caller ID to disguise their identity.

Is there a way to block entire area codes or countries?

Some advanced blocking apps allow you to block calls from specific area codes or even entire countries.

Can email-based services help manage unwanted calls and messages?

While primarily designed for emails, some security suites like Norton offer features to protect against unwanted calls as part of their mobile security solutions.

What should I do if a blocked number keeps contacting me?

Ensure the number is added to your phone's blocklist and report it as spam to your carrier and any call-blocking apps you use.

Are there any charges related to using spam blocking technologies?

Some apps and services are free, while others may require a subscription. Check the app's details before downloading.

How does reputation-based filtering work in spam calls?

Reputation-based filtering assesses the behavior patterns of numbers and uses this data to predict spam likelihood, blocking those with low reputations.

What's the difference between silencing and blocking calls?

Silencing calls prevents your phone from ringing for certain numbers, while blocking completely prevents the call from coming through.

Useful Links

Useful Links : What technology can help me manage unsolicited texts and calls?
NHS Advice on Unsolicited Calls

Guidance from the NHS on managing unwanted marketing calls.
Advice from Age UK on Nuisance Calls

Tips from Age UK on dealing with nuisance calls and texts.
Which? Guide to Blocking Unwanted Calls

Advice from Which? on stopping nuisance calls through technology and services.
ICO Guide to Mobile Phone Spam

Information from the Information Commissioner's Office on tackling mobile spam.
BT Call Protect Service

BT service to block nuisance calls.
Citizens Advice on Unwanted Contacts

How to prevent unwanted texts and calls according to Citizens Advice.
Important Information On Using This Service


This website offers general information and is not a substitute for professional advice. Always seek guidance from qualified professionals. If you have any medical concerns or need urgent help, contact a healthcare professional or emergency services immediately.

  • Ergsy carfully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
  • Videos shown by Youtube after a video has completed, have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
  • To view, click the arrow in centre of video.
Using Subtitles and Closed Captions
  • Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
  • You may need to turn these on, and choose your preferred language.
Turn Captions On or Off
  • Go to the video you'd like to watch.
  • If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
  • To turn on Captions, click settings .
  • To turn off Captions, click settings again.

More Items From Ergsy search