Unwanted spam and robocalls can be incredibly annoying — interrupting your day, wasting your time, and even posing security risks. Fortunately, Google Pixel phones come with powerful built-in tools to help you automatically detect, filter, and block spam calls. In this guide, you’ll learn how to block spam calls on your Google Pixel phone using different methods — from Google’s native Phone app to Do Not Disturb settings.


1. Use Google’s Built-In Spam Protection

Your Pixel already includes Google’s spam detection system that flags and blocks suspected spam calls automatically.

To enable spam protection:

  1. Open the Phone app on your Pixel.

  2. Tap the three-dot menu (⋮) in the top-right corner.

  3. Select SettingsSpam and Call Screen.

  4. Turn ON both of these options:

    • See caller and spam ID

    • Filter spam calls

What this does:

  • Shows you a “Spam” label for suspicious calls.

  • Automatically blocks calls identified as spam without ringing your phone.


2. Enable “Call Screen” to Let Google Assistant Handle Unknown Calls

Google Assistant can answer unknown calls for you, transcribe what the caller says, and let you decide whether to pick up.

To set it up:

  1. Open the Phone app → tap ⋮ MenuSettings.

  2. Go to Spam and Call ScreenCall Screen.

  3. Under Unknown call settings, choose how to handle:

    • SpamAutomatically decline

    • Possibly faked numbersAutomatically screen

    • First-time callersAsk before screening

Tip: You can read real-time transcripts on your screen while Google Assistant talks to the caller.


3. Manually Block Specific Numbers

If certain numbers keep calling you, you can manually block them.

Here’s how:

  1. Open the Phone app.

  2. Go to Recent calls.

  3. Tap the number you want to block.

  4. Choose Block/report spam.

  5. Tap Block to confirm.

You can also unblock later by going to:
Phone app → ⋮ Menu → Settings → Blocked numbers → Remove.


4. Use Do Not Disturb Mode to Silence Unknown Callers

If you prefer silence during work or sleep hours, Do Not Disturb (DND) can help.

To use it:

  1. Open SettingsSound & vibrationDo Not Disturb.

  2. Tap PeopleCalls.

  3. Choose Calls from → Contacts only.

  4. Go back and turn on Schedule if you want DND to auto-activate at certain times.

Result: You’ll only receive calls from saved contacts — unknown or spam numbers won’t disturb you.


5. Enable Carrier-Level Spam Protection (Optional)

Most mobile carriers (like Verizon, T-Mobile, or AT&T) offer free spam filtering tools that work with Pixel phones.

Examples:

  • Verizon Call Filter: Automatically identifies and blocks spam calls.

  • T-Mobile Scam Shield: Warns about suspicious numbers.

  • AT&T ActiveArmor: Blocks fraud and spam calls.

Check your carrier’s app in Google Play Store, install it, and activate its call protection feature.


6. Use Third-Party Apps (Optional)

If you still receive too many spam calls, you can install advanced call blockers like:

  • Truecaller

  • Hiya

  • Should I Answer?

These apps maintain large spam databases and provide real-time call ID info.
However, note that they require access to your contacts and call logs — only use trusted apps with good reviews.


7. Keep Your Pixel and Apps Updated

Spam detection relies heavily on Google’s algorithms and databases.
To ensure maximum protection:

  1. Go to Settings → System → System update and install any pending updates.

  2. Open Play Store → Profile icon → Manage apps & device → Updates available → tap Update all.


8. Bonus Tip: Report Spam Calls to Improve Detection

Every time you receive a spam call that wasn’t blocked automatically, report it so Google can learn and improve detection.

How to report:

  1. Open the Phone app → Recent calls.

  2. Tap the spam number → choose Block/report spam.

  3. Check Report call as spam → tap Block.

This helps strengthen Google’s spam database for everyone.


Final Thoughts

Google Pixel phones offer some of the best built-in tools to stop spam calls — no need to rely on complicated third-party solutions.
By enabling Spam and Call Screen, blocking unwanted numbers, and using Do Not Disturb smartly, you can finally enjoy peace and quiet.

Keep your system updated and don’t forget to report new spam numbers — every report helps Google make spam detection smarter.

Post a Comment