Android users on Verizon don't have to lift a finger for protection from spam and scam calls
With spam and scam calls expected to make up half of all calls received on mobile phones in the U.S. in 2019 (just this morning we received four spam calls including one as we were writing this story), Verizon earlier this year launched a free version of its Call Filter tool in the states. Today, Verizon announced that it is auto-enrolling eligible Android devices in its free Call Filter service.
"We know our customers are sick and tired of the endless onslaught of robocalls. Let me be clear: I am too. Our team is committed to developing and enhancing the tools that will help bring relief to our customers. This is another major step in that process."-Ronan Dunne, executive vice president, and group CEO, Verizon Consumer Group
While these features are free, for an additional $2.99 per month per line (or $7.99 per month for three or more lines), Call Filter Plus will allow Big Red subscribers to create their own spam and block lists, identify unknown numbers, quantify the risk of each spam or scam call using a "Risk Meter," and more.
The updates will be rolling out to Verizon's Android devices immediately and eligible subscribers can install the app if they can't wait. Keep in mind that only Android devices are being auto-enrolled in the program and those with an Apple iPhone or iPad will have to download the app from the App Store. Verizon says that this year it will help its subscribers identify 1.5 billion spam calls.
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Things that are NOT allowed: