How To Help a Parent Set Up Scam-Call Blocking
Step-by-step guidance for setting up call-blocking tools on a parent's phone or landline to reduce unwanted scam calls.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Scam calls are one of the most common ways older adults are targeted, and they can be distressing even when not acted upon. Setting up call-blocking is one of the most practical protective steps a family member can take — and most options are free and take less than ten minutes.
Understand what is available
Call-blocking options vary by phone type and country. The right solution depends on whether your parent uses a mobile, a landline, or both.
- Mobiles: built-in spam-call labels (Android and iPhone), third-party apps (e.g. Hiya, Truecaller), and network-level scam filters
- Landlines: BT Call Protect (UK), nomorobo (US), and dedicated handsets with call-blocking built in
- Telephone Preference Service (TPS in UK) / Do Not Call Registry (US) — reduces legitimate marketing calls
- Ask the mobile network provider about their free scam-call filter service
Set it up together
Sit with your parent and set up the service together so they understand what it does and are not alarmed by blocked-call notifications.
- Walk through enabling the built-in spam filter on their phone settings
- Install and configure any third-party app together, explaining what 'suspected spam' labels mean
- Register their number with the TPS / Do Not Call Registry
- Write down what to do if a suspicious call still gets through
Set expectations and maintain trust
Call blocking reduces volume but does not eliminate all scam calls. Help your parent feel confident, not dependent.
- Explain that some scam calls may still get through — the filter is a first layer, not a guarantee
- Reassure them that real callers from known numbers will not be blocked
- Agree a rule: if a call asks for money or personal details, hang up and call you
- Check in every few months to see if the setup still feels right
Conversation script
“I've been reading about how many scam calls are going around — would it be OK if I helped set up a call-blocker on your phone? It only takes a few minutes.”
“It won't block calls from people you know — it just flags or stops the obvious nuisance ones.”
“Let's also register your number with the Telephone Preference Service so fewer sales calls come through.”
Frequently asked questions
Will call blocking stop calls from family or the GP surgery?
No. Call-blocking services filter numbers flagged as spam or unknown. Calls from saved contacts and recognised local numbers pass through normally. You can also whitelist specific numbers.
Is the Telephone Preference Service free?
Yes, registration with the TPS (UK) and the Do Not Call Registry (US) is completely free. It takes effect within 28 days and reduces marketing calls from legitimate companies.