Safety
How to Stop Scam Calls on a Mobile Phone
UK steps to block scam calls on mobile — built-in settings, network tools, TPS, and how families can help older relatives.
By SilverSim · 16 May 2026
Scam calls are stressful and can lead to financial loss. The good news: you can reduce unwanted calls significantly with free settings and habits — no technical expertise required.
Who this guide is for
- Older adults receiving suspicious calls
- Families helping a parent block nuisance and fraud calls
- Anyone in the UK tired of fake “bank” or “HMRC” callers
Quick recommendation summary
- Turn on silence unknown callers (iPhone/Android)
- Block repeat numbers when they appear
- Register with TPS for marketing calls
- Report serious fraud to Action Fraud and the bank if money is at risk
More context on our scam safety hub.
Comparison table
| Provider | Best for | Approx cost | Why we like it | Watch out for | Visit site |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone Silence Unknown Callers | Apple users | Free | Sends unknown numbers to voicemail | May miss legitimate first-time callers — review voicemail | Check provider |
| Android spam protection | Android users | Free (varies by brand) | Flags suspected spam in dialer | Settings menus differ by manufacturer | Check provider |
| TPS (Telephone Preference Service) | UK marketing calls | Free | Reduces legal sales calls over time | Does not stop criminals or all scams | Check provider |
Comparison table — check provider websites for current prices
Detailed recommendations
On iPhone
Go to Settings → Phone → Silence Unknown Callers. Explain to the user that known contacts still ring normally.
On Android
Open the Phone app → Settings → look for Caller ID & spam or Blocked numbers (wording varies). Enable spam protection if offered.
Network-level options
EE, O2, Vodafone, and Three sometimes offer premium call-filter add-ons — compare cost vs free built-in tools first.
What to look for
- Clear family rule: never share OTP codes on the phone
- Voicemail set up so trusted new callers can leave a message
- Written list of trusted numbers (GP, bank, family)
Common mistakes
- Answering unknown numbers “to tell them off” — engagement can increase calls
- Installing random “call blocker” apps from ads
- Trusting caller ID display — it can be faked
Safety considerations
- If money was sent, call the bank immediately on the number on the card
- Report fraud at actionfraud.police.uk
- Forward scam texts to 7726
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Will blocking stop all scam calls?
No system is perfect, but combining silence-unknown, blocking, and TPS cuts volume sharply.
Should we change their phone number?
Last resort if harassment is severe. Porting to a new SIM is easier than it used to be with a PAC.
Can the bank stop scam calls?
Banks cannot block your phone line, but they can freeze accounts if you report fraud quickly.