How to Use Truecaller to Effectively Block Spam and Loan App Calls

Loan apps in Nigeria are everywhere, and with them comes the flood of phone calls. Some are polite reminders, while others are relentless harassment and spam. Beyond loan apps, telemarketers, scammers, and random numbers also compete for your attention daily. Picking up unknown calls has now become a gamble, but that’s where Truecaller steps in. This app is one of the most powerful tools Nigerians use to identify unknown numbers and block unwanted calls. If you’ve ever wondered how to use it to shut down spam and loan app harassment, this article will show you practical steps.

Setting Up Truecaller

1. Download and Install
   Head to Google Play Store or Apple App Store, search for Truecaller, and install it. Once installed, open the app and allow the necessary permissions like call management and SMS access.
2. Verify Your Number
   Truecaller requires verification through SMS or call. This step ensures that your number is registered and can also be protected from impersonation.
3. Set As Default Dialer (Optional but Powerful)
   For Android users, Truecaller can be set as your default dialer. This means all incoming and outgoing calls run through it, giving you full access to its caller ID and blocking features.

Identifying Spam and Loan App Numbers

Whenever a call comes in, Truecaller checks its global database. If thousands of users have reported that number as spam or linked it to a loan app, you’ll see the tag instantly, usually marked in red. This allows you to reject the call immediately.

If you already have debt collectors disturbing you, simply search the number in Truecaller’s search bar. If it’s been flagged by others, you’ll know what you’re dealing with before picking up.

Blocking Spam and Loan App Calls

Truecaller gives you several ways to block unwanted calls:

1. Block Specific Numbers

If a loan agent keeps calling from one number, simply tap the number in your Truecaller log, hit the three-dot menu, and select Block. From that moment, calls from that number won’t reach you.

2. Block Spam Marked Numbers

Turn on the option to auto-block top spammers. Truecaller automatically blocks calls that have been flagged repeatedly by its user community, including most loan app collection agents.

3. Block Hidden Numbers

Some loan apps hide behind “Private Numbers.” You can set Truecaller to reject all hidden or unknown numbers. This is useful if you don’t expect professional calls from hidden IDs.

4. Block Series of Numbers

If the app detects a pattern, like multiple calls from numbers starting with a certain prefix, you can create a custom rule to block that series. Many loan apps buy bulk numbers in ranges, so this trick can save you stress.

Managing SMS Spam

Truecaller doesn’t just block calls—it also manages SMS spam. Loan apps often send endless reminder texts or threatening messages. By enabling spam SMS blocking, you can move such messages to a separate spam folder, away from your main inbox.

Updating Spam Database

Truecaller is effective only if it’s kept updated. Make sure your app updates regularly so you have access to the latest spam list. The more people report a number as spam, the more powerful the system becomes.

Privacy Considerations

While Truecaller is useful, you should still be cautious about the permissions you grant. The app may collect some data, though it claims to secure and anonymize it. If you’re worried, you can adjust the privacy settings, hide your number from public search, and limit what others can see about you.

Real-Life Scenarios

Imagine you default on a ₦20,000 loan and a loan app begins calling ten times a day from different numbers. Without Truecaller, you waste energy answering unknown calls. With Truecaller, every call pops up as “Loan App Collection” or “Spam Likely,” saving you embarrassment. You can block one, and if they switch numbers, the community tagging system catches the new ones quickly.

Another scenario is when you’re waiting for an important interview call but don’t want spam interruptions. Truecaller lets you whitelist contacts and official numbers while blocking the rest.

What to Do Beyond Truecaller

While blocking calls can give peace of mind, it doesn’t erase the debt. If you genuinely owe a loan, it’s better to find a way to settle or restructure rather than rely solely on blocking. However, Truecaller ensures that harassment, threats, and unnecessary stress don’t disturb your mental health while you figure out repayment.

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