Unwanted spam calls have become a growing nuisance for many in Switzerland. Often, these calls come from telemarketers or scammers impersonating official entities like the police. For an idea of what these calls might sound like, check out these examples:

If you’re also experiencing these unwanted calls, here are some practical steps to help you block or avoid them effectively.

This guide provides essential tips and Swiss-specific resources to help you block or avoid these interruptions on both iPhone and Android.

1. Block Unknown Callers

  • iPhone: Go to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers. This feature sends calls from unknown numbers straight to voicemail, letting you avoid interruptions.
  • Android: Open the Phone app > Settings > Blocked numbers and enable Unknown or Block spam calls. Specific options vary by model but are typically available on most Android devices.

2. Use the Local.ch App for Spam Protection

  • Download Local.ch (available for Android and iPhone), which frequently updates its list of known telemarketers and scammers. The app identifies and blocks suspicious numbers, giving you an instant heads-up on potentially unwanted calls and automatically filters already recognized marketers. More details on their website.

3. Manually Block Persistent Callers

  • For numbers that repeatedly call despite blocking services:
    • iPhone: Go to Phone > Recents, tap the “i” next to the number, and select Block this Caller.
    • Android: In Phone > Recents, tap the number, go to More Options (three dots), and choose Block.

4. Use a Starred Listing to Opt-Out of Telemarketing Calls

  • Adding an asterisk (*) next to your number in the Swiss telephone directory tells legitimate telemarketers not to call. You can set this up on Local.ch by editing your directory entry and marking it with an asterisk. This provides a formal opt-out and a basis for legal complaints if violated. You can also consider removing yourself entirely from the listing.

5. Activate Call Filters with Swiss Providers

  • Major Swiss telecom providers like Swisscom and Salt offer free Callfilter services. These filters block calls from known telemarketing centers based on reports from users. You can activate the Callfilter through your provider’s app or account settings.

6. Register on the Robinson List for Additional Protection

  • The Robinson List is managed by the Swiss Dialogue Marketing Association and excludes your number from telemarketing databases, reducing unwanted calls. This is a good additional layer of defense against spam.

7. File Complaints for Persistent Spam

  • If spam calls continue despite these precautions, you can file a complaint with SECO (State Secretariat for Economic Affairs). SECO enforces Swiss consumer protection laws and can take action against companies that violate telemarketing rules.

Additional Resources

For more details on telemarketing laws and protections in Switzerland, consider these government resources:

These resources provide official guidance on defending against unwanted calls. With these steps and resources, you’ll have a robust defense against spam calls in Switzerland.

If you’ve received spam calls like these or have a story of how these calls were conducted, please share it in the comments below. Your experience could help bring awareness to others and provide insight into the latest tactics scammers use, making it easier for our community to stay informed and prepared. Let’s work together to protect ourselves and each other from unwanted spam calls!