Published 11/12/25
Harassment doesn’t always scream danger. Sometimes, it creeps in, one call at a time. A blocked number that keeps ringing. A message that leaves you uneasy. A voice pretending to be someone you know.
But you’re not defenseless. With the right habits and tools, you can shut it down before it gets worse.
Here are six practical ways to stay one step ahead and protect yourself from phone harassment.
1. Let unknown calls go to voicemail
It may sound simple, but one of the best ways to protect yourself is to ignore calls from numbers you don’t recognize. According to the FCC, if you don’t know the number, just don’t pick up. It's as easy as that.
This is especially important for women dealing with harassment from ex-partners, strangers, or even fake “customer support” impersonators. Letting the call go to voicemail gives you time to listen calmly, without pressure, and decide your next step on your own terms.
2. Don’t give out personal or emotional information
Harassers don’t just ask for your bank info, they often try to manipulate your emotions. A caller might pretend to know you, ask personal questions, or say something vague like, “It’s urgent we talk.”
Don’t fall for it. No legitimate caller should ask you to confirm private details like your birthday, address, or even your relationship status over an unsolicited call or message. If it feels off, hang up and block them. Always double-check using a verified source before engaging.
3. Use your phone’s built-in security features
Most smartphones today come with tools designed to protect you. Turn on features like spam call blocking and silence unknown callers. Be sure to keep your operating system updated to stay protected from the latest threats. Simple phone settings can sometimes help cut down on unwanted interruptions before they even ring.
iPhone: Enable “Silence Unknown Callers” under Settings → Phone.
Android: Use “Caller ID & Spam Protection” and block/report suspicious numbers.
Also, make sure you’re using a strong password or biometric login (like Face ID or fingerprint) and avoid installing apps from unknown sources. These steps create a solid first line of defense on your device.
4. Watch out for harassment by text and smishing
Scammers don’t just call, they text too. “Smishing” refers to scam texts that look like legitimate messages from delivery companies, banks, or even toll services. But they’re designed to trick you into clicking a fake link or giving up sensitive information.
The FBI has recently warned about a rise in these smishing scams.
Other harassment can come in the form of text as well. From anonymous “Hey beautiful” messages to disturbing DMs pretending to be from friends, text-based harassment is on the rise.
If a text feels invasive, don’t click any links and delete the message.
Use your phone or carrier’s features to block the number and report the message. If needed, apps like iCaughtYou help you take further action.
5. Add iCaughtYou to your toolkit
Harassers often hide behind blocked numbers or “No Caller ID.” iCaughtYou helps you unmask those hidden callers so you know who’s really trying to reach you. Then you can respond with confidence.
Here’s what you can do with iCaughtYou:
Reveal hidden or anonymous callers
Record both incoming and outgoing calls (where permitted by law)
Blacklist numbers that harass you
See missed calls even when your phone is on Do Not Disturb
This gives you the upper hand. You’re no longer in the dark, and you don’t have to keep guessing who’s on the other end.
Explore the full list of what iCaughtYou can do on our Features page.
6. Stay informed and talk about it
Scams/harassment evolve constantly. From fake prize messages to relentless calls after midnight, the bad guys are always testing new angles to catch you off guard.
But here’s the truth: they thrive in silence. The more you talk about what you’re seeing - whether it’s a sketchy number, a creepy message, or a suspicious social account - the more power you take back.
Start with your circle. Talk to friends, family, or coworkers about what’s happening. Compare notes. Stay alert. Awareness spreads fast and it protects more than just you.
How it all comes together
Think of these strategies as your personal shield. You let suspicious calls go to voicemail. You never hand over personal info. You use your phone’s security features. You watch out for suspicious texts. You lock down your phone and protect it with iCaughtYou. You talk to your circle and stay aware.
Harassers count on panic, confusion, and fast reactions. These steps help you slow things down so you can make smart choices and protect what matters.
Final Thoughts
Harassment happens more than most people realize. But that doesn’t mean it has to reach you.
iCaughtYou is here to help make that easier. Whether it’s showing you who’s calling, recording key conversations, or stopping the same number from ever bothering you again.
You don’t need to guess who’s on the line anymore. Take back control of your calls and your peace of mind today.