Have you grown frustrated from constant phone calls and notifications from predatory loan apps in Nigeria? You’re not alone. Loan apps can be extremely persistent with their marketing efforts, calling at all hours of the day. In this article, I’ll walk through simple steps you can take to block these annoying loan app calls on both iPhone and Android phones.
When I was a university student a few years ago, I would get 5-10 calls per day from different loan apps. It was incredibly frustrating, especially since many of the callers would not take no for an answer and kept insisting I take out a loan. The ringing and notifications disrupted my classes and sleep. I needed to find a solution to get them to stop.
How Loan Apps Get Your Number
Most loan apps acquire phone numbers through data aggregation companies that collect contact information in bulk. They often buy lists of numbers from other companies or collect them through website forms. This allows them to spam call massive numbers of potential customers all at once.
How to Identify Apps Behind the Calls
The first step is to identify which specific loan apps are behind the calls. Check the caller ID if available or ask the representative which company they’re calling from. Make a list of the top culprits so you know what numbers/apps to block. Common offenders in Nigeria include Okash, Carbon, FairMoney, and Kuda.
Check with Your Mobile Network
Your mobile network may offer tools to identify and block spam callers. For example, MTN and 9Mobile allow you to check calls from unknown or private numbers on your online account dashboard. This can help uncover which apps may be harassing you.
Download Caller ID Apps
If your default dialer doesn’t show caller identities, try downloading third-party caller ID apps like Truecaller. These apps maintain massive databases of phone numbers to help you identify suspected spammers. Just be wary of their own data collection policies.
How to Block Loan App Calls on iPhone
The iPhone makes it relatively simple to block specific phone numbers from contacting you. Here are the steps:
1. Open the Phone App and Go to Recents
Tap on the list of recent calls to view call logs and caller IDs.
2. swipe left on the unwanted number
This will reveal a button to block the number.
3. Tap “Block this Caller”
The number will now be added to your blocked list to prevent future calls and messages.
4. Block additional numbers as needed
Repeat the above steps for each loan app you want to block. Be sure to note down numbers for any new callers in the future.
How to Block Loan App Calls on Android
While the exact blocking process varies by Android device and carrier, here are the general steps:
- Long press on the notification to view call details.
- Look for an option to “Block number” or add to your blocked list.
- As with iPhone, be sure to log numbers of any new callers you encounter over time.
How to Block loan apps via Your Carrier
If the above on-device methods don’t work or you want an extra layer of protection, contact your carrier directly to enable call blocking. Options include:
- MTN Caller ID: Check calls from unknown or private numbers online. Report harassing callers.
- 9Mobile Spam Filter: Make requests to block numbers or groups like “loan providers.” Takes 24-48 hours.
- Airtel Caller ID: View call logs online and block specific domestic or international numbers.
Explain the process to your carrier rep politely but firmly. Carriers want to reduce spam as much as customers.
Conclusion
With the right combination of on-device blocking, carrier tools, and third-party apps, you can dramatically reduce unwanted loan app calls on your phone. Note numbers as they come in so no potential spammers slip through the cracks. With persistence, you’ll restore peace and quiet to your phone.
