From Dallas Express · Dallas Express · · 2m
FCC Releases Robocall Blocking Guides
FCC launches step-by-step guides to block robocalls and scam texts on phones and carriers
In brief
FCC launches step-by-step guides to block robocalls and scam texts on phones and carriers Consumers can activate existing call-blocking and text-filtering tools without new fees Originally reported by Dallas Express.
FCC Announces New Guides
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr released step-by-step guides to activate call-blocking and text-filtering tools on smartphones and wireless carriers.
No New Laws Created
The guides do not create new laws or replace the National Do Not Call Registry but consolidate existing phone and carrier features.
Free Tools Available
Basic blocking and filtering tools are free or included with wireless service, with paid upgrades offered by carriers.
How Guides Work
Consumers select instructions based on their device and carrier, like iPhone with T-Mobile.
Carrier-Specific Tools
Carriers offer services like AT&T ActiveArmor, T-Mobile Scam Shield, and Verizon Call Filter for scam protection.
FCC Recommends Dual Protection
The FCC advises using both device-level and carrier-level tools rather than relying on just one.
Robocall Scale
Americans received 52.5 billion robocalls in 2025, down slightly from 52.8 billion in 2024.
Scam Texts Reach Billions
Over 29.6 billion scam robocalls and texts were reported in 2025, costing nearly $2 billion.
Attorney General Coalition
50 attorneys general joined a coalition urging the FCC to strengthen customer-vetting rules for phone companies.
Do Not Call Registry
The National Do Not Call Registry has over 258 million active registrations and 2.6 million complaints in 2025.
Historical Efforts
The FTC launched the National Do Not Call Registry in 2003, and the TRACED Act passed in 2019 to combat robocalls.
FCC Upstream Rules
The FCC expanded rules to require all providers in a call path to use do-not-originate lists for illegal calls.
North Texas Targeted
Scammers have targeted North Texas with fake toll charges and impersonation calls from law enforcement.
What Guides Can't Do
Even with all filters enabled, consumers may still receive unwanted calls or have legitimate calls blocked.
What it means
Consumers can activate existing call-blocking and text-filtering tools without new fees
