Guide · Verizon · Updated September 2026
Block Spam and “Scam Likely” Calls on Verizon
Verizon Call Filter blocks known fraud numbers on the network, before the call is routed to your handset. It is free on every line and takes about two minutes to switch on.
The 30-second version
Call Filter app → gear icon → Spam filter: On → level High → Spam alerts: On. Blocked calls never ring.
Step by step
- Open the Call Filter app that ships on most Verizon phones. If it is missing, install Verizon Call Filter from the App Store or Google Play and sign in with your Verizon number.
- Tap the gear icon, then Spam filter, and switch it on.
- Set the filter level to High so calls Verizon has confirmed as fraud are blocked on the network and never ring your phone.
- Turn on Spam alerts so anything below the block threshold still arrives labelled 'Potential spam' on your screen.
- Open Blocked numbers and add any specific number that keeps getting through.
- Use Report a number inside the app whenever a scam call reaches you — reports feed the shared list every Verizon line uses.
Watch out for
- Calls claiming to be “Verizon fraud prevention” asking for your account PIN or a code you were just texted. Hang up and dial the number on your bill.
- Upgrade offers that ask you to pay a fee to “activate” blocking. The blocking tier is free.
- Blocking numbers one at a time instead of turning the network filter on — spoofed numbers change daily.
Questions people ask
How do I block Scam Likely calls on Verizon?
Open the Call Filter app, turn on Spam filter and set the level to High. Verizon then blocks calls it has confirmed as fraud on the network, so your phone never rings and no voicemail is left. Turn on Spam alerts as well so borderline calls arrive labelled instead.
Is Verizon Call Filter free?
Yes. Spam detection, spam alerts, network blocking and reporting are free on every Verizon line. The paid Call Filter Plus tier adds caller ID for unknown numbers, a personal spam list and a risk meter, but you do not need it to stop scam calls.
Why do I still get spam calls with Call Filter on?
Call Filter only blocks numbers Verizon has already classified as high risk. Scam operations rotate through thousands of freshly spoofed numbers a day, so new ones get one ring before the network catches up. Stack the phone's own filter on top — Silence Unknown Callers on iPhone, spam filtering in the Google Phone app on Android.
Does Call Filter block texts too?
No. Call Filter only handles voice calls. For scam texts, report the message to 7726 (SPAM) from your Verizon line, then delete it without tapping any link.
Will Call Filter block calls I actually want?
Occasionally. Doctors' offices, delivery drivers and recruiters often call from numbers with no caller ID history. Check the Blocked calls log in the app weekly for the first month and add any legitimate number to your contacts.
How do I turn Verizon Call Filter off?
Open the app, tap the gear icon, and switch Spam filter off — or uninstall the app. You can also manage it in My Verizon under the line's Services and perks.
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Related guides
Authoritative sources
Independent primary sources used to check and corroborate the guidance on this page.
- US Federal Communications Commission — Robocalls
Regulator guidance on blocking unwanted calls and texts.
- US National Do Not Call Registry
Register a number and file telemarketing complaints.
- UK Ofcom — Nuisance Calls and Messages
UK regulator advice and reporting routes for scam calls and SMS.
