{"id":18195,"date":"2025-07-14T14:43:40","date_gmt":"2025-07-14T09:13:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/learn.razorpay.in\/learn\/?p=18195"},"modified":"2026-01-06T12:35:18","modified_gmt":"2026-01-06T07:05:18","slug":"potential-spam-call","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/potential-spam-call\/","title":{"rendered":"Spam Calls: Risks & How to Block Them in 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"

Six out of ten<\/span><\/a> people in India get at least three spam calls every single day. Seeing labels like suspected spam or potential spam pop up on your phone can often leave you unsure or even worried about picking up. You might wonder, <\/span>why does it say potential spam<\/b> or <\/span>what happens if you answer one<\/b>?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The truth is, not every spam caller is a scammer \u2014 some calls just try to sell you things, while others can be risky and lead to fraud or data theft. Read on this guide to understand the real meaning behind these labels, the dangers they carry, and simple ways to block spam calls in 2026 and protect yourself.<\/span><\/p>\n

What Is a Spam Call?<\/b><\/h2>\n

Spam calls<\/b> are any unwanted or unsolicited call you receive, often from unknown or hidden numbers. These calls cover different types \u2014 some just push promotions you never asked for, some are robocalls with pre-recorded messages, and others are outright scam calls trying to trick you into sharing personal or financial information.<\/span><\/p>\n

What Does “Suspected Spam” or “Potential Spam” Mean on Your Phone?<\/b><\/h2>\n

When you see <\/span>suspected spam<\/b> or <\/span>potential spam<\/b> on your screen, it means your caller ID app or network has flagged that number as likely unwanted. Apps like Truecaller and Hiya, or filters from Jio and Airtel, show these labels when many people report a number or it matches known spam databases. This helps you decide whether to answer or ignore the call to avoid unwanted sales or possible scams.<\/span><\/p>\n

Why Am I Getting Spam Calls?<\/b><\/h2>\n

You might wonder why <\/span>spam callers<\/b> have your number in the first place. Many times, it happens due to data leaks or when companies sell your contact details without clear consent. For example, reports show that the data of<\/span> 815 million Indian citizens<\/span><\/a> \u2014 including Aadhaar numbers and passport details \u2014 has been sold on the dark web<\/a>. Along with data leaks like this, even simple actions such as filling out online surveys, signing up for lucky draws, or using unsecured apps can also expose your number to spam callers.<\/span><\/p>\n

Robodialers and number generators make things worse \u2014 these systems dial thousands of numbers randomly until someone picks up. In India, your number may be targeted for PAN or KYC frauds. In the US, scams like fake IRS calls are common. This is why you see suspected spam or potential spam alerts more often now.<\/span><\/p>\n

Is It Dangerous to Answer a Spam or Potential Spam Call?<\/b><\/h2>\n

Answering a spam or potential <\/span>spam call<\/b> can do more harm than you might think. Many <\/span>spam callers<\/b> start with harmless questions but often look for ways to steal your personal details. Sharing even basic information can lead to identity theft.<\/span><\/p>\n

Fraudsters may trick you into giving away OTPs or UPI PINs<\/a>, putting your money at risk. Some use these calls to clone your SIM card, which lets them control your calls and messages. Many also rely on social engineering \u2014 convincing you to share private information without realising it.<\/span><\/p>\n

How to Block Spam & Potential Spam Calls? (Android & iPhone)<\/b><\/h2>\n

For iPhone Users<\/b><\/h3>\n