What the tech: Scam and spam protections
Like you, I must get a dozen calls, texts, and emails a day about health coverage. The Federal Trade Commission says scam calls always spike this time of year during open enrollment. If you are tired of hearing the phone ring or getting a text message about new insurance plans, there are ways to stop at least some of them.
Apple’s latest iOS update includes a feature called “Silence Unknown Callers.” When it is turned on, any number not saved in your contacts is sent straight to voicemail. You never even hear it ring.
Here’s how to find it:
Open Settings>Apps>Phone
Make sure “Unknown Callers” is toggled on under Call Filtering.
Also turn on the spam filter so calls identified by your carrier as spam or fraud are silenced and moved to your voicemail or spam folder.
The newest version of iOS can also screen calls from unsaved numbers. Before you answer, the phone asks the caller to state their name and why they are calling. It is a small feature that helps weed out robocalls and sales calls before you pick up. You’ll find this option right above “Call Filtering”.
Android users have even more control. The Google Phone app now highlights suspected spam and scam calls in red with a clear warning. On some Android phones, Google Assistant can answer those calls for you and hang up automatically if it detects a scam.
You can find all of the spam and scam blocking tools in the Phone app. Just tap the three dots (…) to find the options to turn those on.
Spam text messages are also getting worse. On an iPhone, go to Settings and turn on “Filter Unknown Senders” within the Messages app.
That moves suspicious texts into a separate folder so you never have to see them.
Android phones also identify and block suspicious messages using the Messages by Google app.
If you are getting bombarded with unwanted calls and texts, check your settings for these built-in tools. Experts say AI is helping phones recognize spam and scam patterns faster than ever. Still, the best advice remains the same. Do not answer calls from numbers you do not recognize, and never respond to suspicious texts. Replying only confirms that your phone number is active and can lead to even more spam.
And remember, real health insurance companies will never ask for payment or personal information over the phone or by text.
