What does “Scam Likely” mean and how can you stop it? We will discuss how to reduce spam and block scam calls.
You may be used to your phone’s caller identification letting you know who is calling. However, sometimes you might see a “scam most likely” message instead. What is “scam most likely”, who are they, and how do you stop them?
Let’s take a look at the “scam most likely” calls to understand how this function works.
What is a “Scam Likely”?
T-Mobile, Metro (a sister company of T-Mobile) and Sprint (since they merged) customers receive a message saying “Scam Likely”. It is part of T-Mobile’s “Scam Shield” feature that works to stop scam calls across its network.
This is a default setting for the company, so you may have seen this message without having to change any settings.
T-Mobile’s network checks all calls to customers’ phones against a list of known scam numbers. These are scam calls that impersonate government entities, demand payment with gift cards, tech support schemes or other annoying robocalls.
Scam ID works at the network level. This means that you will see “Scam Likely” regardless of whether your device is an iPhone, Android, or a basic phone. It doesn’t require you to download any additional apps. However, T-Mobile’s Scam Shield app for iPhone and Android can be installed for extra control.
Can I trust “Scam Likely Calls”?
You may see “Scam Likely”, which could be a fake call. However, no automated filter is perfect. We recommend that you exercise extreme caution when answering calls with this label. Most “Scam Likely” calls will deceive you. Do not give any personal information to the caller and assume they are lying.
If in doubt, do not answer unknown calls. If they call you from a number that you don’t know, leave a message. If you ever feel uncomfortable while on a call, hang up. Scammers often use tricks to get you to act in a hurry, making it difficult for people to believe they are scammers.
How to block “Scam Likely Calls”
T-Mobile also offers a “Scam Block” option for those who receive a lot “Scam Likely” phone calls. You can block any calls marked as “Scam Likely” and have them blocked automatically so that they don’t reach your phone.
Open your phone’s dialer application to opt into Scam Block. To activate the service, dial #662#. You can also dial #632# if you wish to disable it later. If you are unsure whether it is enabled, you can dial strong>#632#/strong>.
You can also do it in other ways. To enable the Scam Shield app, you can either download it for free or log into your T-Mobile account. For more information, visit TMobile’s Scam Shield webpage.
Additional T-Mobile Scam Shield features
T-Mobile customers have access to anti-spam tools. You can apply for DIGITS to get a proxy number. This allows you to keep your real phone number secret while still allowing others to reach you. For more information, visit TMobile’s DIGITS page.
You can also change your phone number free of charge once a year if you get too many scam calls. Call 1-800-T-MOBILE if you have any questions or need to change your phone number.
How to identify scam calls from other carriers
Although the “Scam Likely” warning is great, what if you don’t use T–Mobile, Metro or Sprint? Many other carriers offer similar services. This is because of the STIR/SHAKEN standard that US carriers implemented over time on their networks.
This is basically a set protocol that allows carriers to fight against caller ID spoofing. This is what you’ve likely experienced when you get a call from someone calling from your exchange or area code. If your number is (718), 555-1212, then you might receive a call from (718), 555-3434. They are trying to get your trust by pretending that their distant number is local.
These standards enable providers to display a “Call Verified” message on your phone to verify that it was not spoofed. As they work together to reduce the number of spam calls each year, this feature is now available on a growing number of devices and operators.
Scam Calls from Verizon, AT&T and Other Companies
AT&T customers can download AT&T call protect for iPhone and Android. You get spam and fraud blocking capabilities for free. An optional subscription is available (which you probably won’t need) to provide advanced protection.
You are eligible for the free Call filter service if you use Verizon. To manage your Verizon Call Filter, you can either download the Android or iPhone app. Verizon offers a paid subscription to improve this, which is not necessary for most people.
Similar services should be offered by other carriers. For more information, visit a store or log in to your account management page.
How to block scam calls on Android and iPhone
Don’t be alarmed if you get scam calls despite these free services. No matter which carrier you use, both Android and iOS can detect and block scam phone calls.
How to Block Scam Calls from Android
The stock Android’s Phone app from Google will alert you to suspected spammers.
Open the app, tap the three-dot button in the top-right and confirm that this option is enabled. Click Settings and then choose Caller ID and spam. To identify spam callers, enable the See caller or spam ID slider.
The second toggle Block spam calls will completely block them. You’ll be able to see the reason that a verified business is calling you by turning on Verified calls.
How to filter and block scam calls on iPhone
Open the Phone App on your iPhone and tap Recents. This will show you all who have called you. To stop spam numbers from calling you again, tap the I icon near a spam number. Scroll down and tap Block This Caller.
The feature allows you to call numbers that you have called recently and also allows Siri Suggestions calls to be processed. If you receive an email with someone’s phone number in the signature, it will allow you to call that number even though it is not in your contacts.
This should only be enabled if you receive a lot spam. Otherwise, you may miss important calls. provides information on the best methods to block scam numbers.
How to stop “Scam Likely Calls”
Protecting your mobile number is the best way to prevent “Scam Likely” calls from ever happening.
You should register your number on the National Do Not Call Registry. Although it doesn’t prevent all calls, it does filter out unwanted telemarketing and other junk.
You should be cautious about where you give your number. Nearly all online accounts, promotions, and services these days will require your phone number. Some companies may allow affiliates to have your number for marketing purposes. This is something that you probably don’t want.
You should think twice about sharing your number online. To use your secondary contact method, you might sign up for a Google Voice free number. This can be used for non-essential services and will allow you to silence the number without worrying about any incoming calls.
“Scam Likely” No Longer!
We have taken a look at “Scam Likely” phone calls, what you can do to stop them, and what you can do to prevent “scam-likely” calls from happening. This is T-Mobile’s helpful warning as it upgrades its networks to combat phony calls. If you get these calls often, you can take additional steps to block them. You don’t have to pay anything.
Call spam isn’t the only unwanted communication that you’ll encounter on your phone. Spam text messages are also a problem.
