Did you know that over 50 billion spam calls were made in the US last year? Many of these calls are flagged as “Scam Likely” by mobile carriers. These calls come from telemarketers, robocallers, and scammers trying to trick people into giving away personal or financial information.
If you’ve ever wondered what is scam likely, why you’re getting these calls, and how to block scam likely calls, you’re not alone. Whether you’re a business protecting customer data or an individual looking to stop spam calls, this guide will help you stay safe.
What is “Scam Likely”?
The term “Scam Likely” is used by mobile carriers like T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon to flag suspicious calls. It means that the caller ID has been marked as spam, fraud, or a scam by other users or the carrier itself. Here’s why a number might be flagged:
- It has been reported by many people as spam.
- The number uses auto-dialing systems to make thousands of calls daily.
- The caller hides their true identity using spoofing techniques.
These calls often come from telemarketers, scammers, and robocallers trying to trick people into sharing sensitive information. For Spanish-speaking users, scam likely en español appears on their phones in the same way, alerting them to potential fraud.
What Are “Scam Likely” Calls?
There are different types of scam likely calls, and some are more dangerous than others. Here are the most common ones:
1. Fake IRS or Tax Calls
- The scammer claims you owe money to the IRS.
- They threaten legal action or arrest if you don’t pay.
- The IRS never calls people directly for payments—this is always a scam.
2. Bank and Credit Card Scams
- Scammers pretend to be from your bank and ask for account details.
- They might claim your account was compromised and ask for a verification code.
- Never share OTPs or account details over the phone.
3. Tech Support Scams
- The caller says your computer or phone has a virus.
- They ask you to download remote access software so they can “fix” it.
- Real tech support companies never cold-call customers.
4. Prize or Lottery Scams
- You receive a call saying you’ve won a contest.
- They ask for a processing fee before you can claim your prize.
- If you didn’t enter a contest, you didn’t win anything!
5. Social Security or Medicare Scams
- The caller claims to be from the Social Security Administration or Medicare.
- They say your benefits will be cut off unless you confirm your information.
- Government agencies do not make random calls asking for personal details.
Some people also see very scam likely calls, meaning the call has been flagged as even more suspicious than a regular scam call.
How to Block Scam Likely Calls?
If you’re tired of scam likely calls, here’s how to stop scam likely calls:
Blocking Scam Likely on Iphone
- Go to Settings > Phone.
- Select Silence Unknown Callers.
- Turn it on to send scam calls directly to voicemail.
Blocking Scam Likely on Android
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap the three dots in the top right corner.
- Go to Settings > Caller ID & Spam.
- Enable Filter Spam Calls.
Using Carrier Services
Most mobile carriers offer free spam blocking features:
- T-Mobile – Scam Shield (free & premium options).
- Verizon – Call Filter (basic is free, premium is paid).
- AT&T – Call Protect (basic is free, premium is paid).
Check with your mobile carrier to activate scam likely block features.
Use Third-Party Call Blocking Apps
- Truecaller, Hiya, and RoboKiller block spam and robocalls.
- These apps have massive databases of scam likely numbers.
Register Your Number with the Do Not Call List
- Go to www.donotcall.gov and enter your number.
- This prevents legal telemarketers from calling you.
- Some people also enable scam likely DND (Do Not Disturb) mode to filter out spam calls altogether.
Another way to block spam calls is by using a scam likely code provided by your mobile carrier. Dialing these codes can activate spam filters or block specific numbers.
How PureVPN Helps Fight Scam Likely Calls?
Many scam calls happen because your phone number is exposed online. When you sign up for services, post on social media, or enter contests, your phone number can be sold to marketers and scammers.
If you run a business, selling VPN services can help your customers avoid scam calls and protect their personal data. With PureVPN’s VPN Reseller Program, you can:
- Offer customers a way to block scam likely calls with enhanced privacy.
- Generate recurring revenue while offering security solutions.
By bundling VPN services with your existing offerings, you help customers stay protected from scam calls and online fraud.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does “scam likely” mean on my phone?
It means your carrier has flagged the call as potential spam, fraud, or a robocall. These calls often come from scammers or telemarketers.
What does a likely scam look like?
A likely scam call often comes from an unknown or spoofed number, using high-pressure tactics to get personal information or money.
What happens if I call back a scam likely?
Calling back a scam likely number may confirm to scammers that your number is active, leading to even more scam calls.
How do I stop getting scam likely calls?
You can block scam likely calls by enabling call blocking tools on your phone, using a carrier spam filter, or registering on the Do Not Call List.
What happens if I answer a scam likely call on my iPhone?
If you answer, scammers may try to trick you into giving out personal information. It’s best to hang up immediately.
Can a scam likely be wrong?
Yes, sometimes real calls can be flagged as “scam likely” due to incorrect spam reports or spoofed numbers.
Why are your calls marked scam likely?
If your number is being marked as scam likely, it may have been reported as spam by multiple users or flagged by carrier spam filters.
Should I pick up a scam likely call?
No, it’s best to ignore scam likely calls and let them go to voicemail. If it’s important, the caller will leave a message.
Final Thoughts
Scam likely calls are an increasing problem, but you don’t have to be a victim. By using call blocking tools, VPN protection, and being cautious with unknown numbers, you can reduce the number of scam calls you receive.
For businesses, offering VPN security is a great way to provide privacy solutions while increasing revenue. Check out PureVPN’s VPN Reseller Program to learn how you can help your customers stay safe from scam calls.
Protect your privacy today and block scam likely calls before they reach you!