Robocalls and scam calls remain one of the top consumer complaints in the US. Even with tough Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations, scammers continue to find loopholes to reach households.
Fortunately, phone carriers have introduced advanced call-blocking technologies to protect customers. This blog explores how carriers handle scam calls and what you can do to stay one step ahead.
Why Are Scam Calls Still So Common in the US?
Fraudsters exploit gaps in technology and law enforcement:
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Caller ID spoofing: Scammers fake local area codes.
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VoIP systems: Internet calling makes mass dialling cheap.
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Overseas call centres: Hard to trace or prosecute.
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Consumer data leaks: Exposed phone numbers fuel robocall lists.
According to the FTC, over 4.4 billion robocalls were made to US numbers each month in 2024.
Summary: Scam calls persist in the US due to spoofing, VoIP access, overseas operations, and leaked consumer data.
How Do US Phone Carriers Block Scam and Spam Calls?
Carriers have implemented new technologies and programs:
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AT&T ActiveArmor – Uses AI to identify and block suspicious numbers before they reach your line.
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Verizon Call Filter – Labels or automatically blocks high-risk calls.
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Spectrum Call Guard – Filters unwanted calls and adds real-time threat updates.
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Xfinity Voice Protection – Detects robocalls and spam across Comcast networks.
All these systems rely on the STIR/SHAKEN protocol—an FCC-mandated technology that verifies caller ID authenticity to reduce spoofing.
Summary: US carriers use AI, fraud databases, and FCC-approved STIR/SHAKEN technology to block suspicious calls automatically.
What Are the Limitations of Carrier-Level Blocking?
Even with advanced systems, challenges remain:
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Spoofing still happens when fraudsters manipulate verified numbers.
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Overseas scams evade domestic filters.
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Some legitimate calls get blocked due to aggressive filtering.
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Limited consumer control – Users may want more manual blocking options.
Example: A Florida retiree reported that her carrier’s spam filter blocked her doctor’s office number by mistake, showing that filters aren’t always perfect.
Summary: Carrier tools reduce scam volume but can’t fully prevent spoofing or mislabelled calls.
How Can You Strengthen Your Protection at Home?
Carriers do their part, but you can add an extra layer of safety:
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Use a call-blocking device – Products like CPR Call Blocker provide instant, customisable blocking.
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Register with the Do Not Call Registry – Cuts legitimate telemarketing.
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Report unwanted calls to the FTC or FCC.
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Enable Caller ID and voicemail screening – Helps identify unknown numbers.
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Educate elderly relatives – Teach them never to share financial information over the phone.
Summary: Combine carrier spam filtering with personal call blockers, Do Not Call registration, and safe communication habits.
Conclusion
US carriers are investing heavily in technology to reduce scam and spam calls—but personal responsibility and home call blockers remain essential. Together, these layers create the best protection for you and your family.
Explore our range of personal safety and call-blocking devices to protect your loved ones today.
FAQs
Q: What is STIR/SHAKEN?
A: It’s an FCC technology framework that verifies caller ID information to reduce spoofing.
Q: Are carrier spam filters free?
A: Most carriers include basic filtering for free, with premium options available.
Q: Do I still need a call blocker if my carrier filters calls?
A: Yes, physical devices add manual control and block persistent numbers faster.
Q: Can carriers stop robocalls completely?
A: Not yet—but they’ve significantly reduced their volume and risk.
