FCC Released New Robocall Blocking Guides
The FCC has introduced instruction cards to help consumers filter unwanted calls and robotexts.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Telecommunications
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Do you trust that new FCC guides will effectively reduce the robocalls you receive?
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has released new consumer guides designed to help users block and filter unwanted robocalls and robotexts. These resources provide specific instructions for mobile devices and service providers in the United States.
Why it matters
Combatting illegal robocalls remains the top consumer protection priority for the FCC. These guides aim to empower the public by providing actionable tools to manage unwanted communication on their personal mobile devices.
The new guidance includes two device-level instruction cards for Apple and Google platforms and three provider-level cards for services from AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. Users can follow these instructions to enable existing filtering features.
The players
Federal Communications Commission
The independent United States government agency responsible for regulating interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable.
AT&T
A major American multinational telecommunications holding company that provides mobile and landline services to millions of customers.
T-Mobile
A wireless network operator that provides mobile services and data coverage across the United States.
Verizon
A global telecommunications provider known for its extensive wireless network coverage and consumer mobile service offerings.
The details
Consumers can now access specific instruction sets tailored to their smartphone brand and wireless carrier to activate built-in blocking technology. AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon all currently offer free features that enable users to report and mitigate unwanted calls and texts.
Timeline
September 22, 2026: The FCC released the robocall blocking consumer guides.
The Tech Race
This move represents an evolution of the regulatory framework established by the Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991 as agencies shift toward consumer-led technical solutions. These efforts position the FCC to mitigate the impact of sophisticated telemarketing automation tools.
Users can immediately improve their call screening by accessing the cards corresponding to their specific phone and carrier. These resources simplify the process of activating existing but often underutilized filtering tools already provided by service carriers.
The takeaway
Consumers are encouraged to review their carrier-specific settings to ensure all available spam protections are active on their accounts. Proactively managing these settings is currently the most effective way to reduce the volume of unwanted contact.
Further reading
For more information on current regulations, visit the United States Telecommunications section.
Live Poll
Do you trust that new FCC guides will effectively reduce the robocalls you receive?
