Key Takeaways:
Spam and robocalls are rising in South Africa, often linked to phishing scams.
Numbers can be reported to ICASA, your provider, or flagged via spam apps.
VoIP systems offer better spam protection than traditional phone lines.
Mobile users can use apps and call settings to block unwanted calls.
Choose VoIP providers with strong security and POPIA compliance.
South African consumers and businesses alike are facing a growing wave of spam calls, robocalls, and phishing attempts. Whether it’s a fake insurance offer, a “missed call” scam, or a robocall pretending to be from SARS, the problem is both irritating and dangerous – especially when personal or financial data is at stake.
In this article, we explore how spam calls work, what you can do to reduce your exposure, and how VoIP systems may offer stronger protection than traditional phone lines. If you’re considering upgrading your communications setup, this guide could help you make a smarter, safer choice.
What Are Spam Calls and Why Are They Increasing?
Spam calls include any unsolicited phone calls, often from auto-dialers or scammers. These can range from legitimate but aggressive sales attempts to full-blown fraud and phishing schemes.
Common Examples in South Africa:
Wangiri (one-ring) scams: You see a missed call from an international number. If you call back, you’re charged premium rates.
Robocalls: Pre-recorded messages offering fake services or pretending to be from a government agency.
Caller ID spoofing: Scammers mask their identity with a local or trusted number to trick you into answering.
Phishing calls: The caller pretends to be from your bank, service provider or SARS to harvest sensitive data.
These are often executed using mass-calling software or international call centres – made cheaper and easier by unregulated VoIP tools.
Can Spam Numbers Be Reported in South Africa?
Yes – but with limitations.
Reporting Channels:
ICASA: South Africa’s telecoms regulator can be notified of abusive or persistent spam via icasa.org.za.
The National Consumer Commission (NCC): Handles consumer complaints related to unwanted marketing under the Consumer Protection Act.
Your service provider: MTN, Vodacom, Telkom and Cell C all allow spam reports via SMS or their respective apps.
Truecaller or Hiya: Apps like these can help flag and report spam numbers to a global database.
How to Look Up a Spam Number
While South Africa doesn’t have a universal caller ID system, there are a few ways to investigate suspicious numbers:
Use call-blocking apps like Truecaller, NumBuster or CallApp.
Search online – plug the number into Google or forums like HelloPeter, where others may have flagged it.
Contact your provider to request more information or block the number.
How These Calls Are Being Made
Spam callers typically use:
VoIP software like SIP dialers to mass-call numbers from international IP addresses.
Number spoofing to trick your caller ID into showing a local or trusted number.
Database leaks – your number may have been leaked through a breached app, online form, or data-sharing practice.
The low cost of VoIP and easy access to global infrastructure makes South Africa an easy target.
How to Secure Your Phone from Spam & Phishing Calls
For Mobile Users:
Install a spam-blocking app (Truecaller, Call Control, Hiya).
Enable call blocking in your smartphone’s native settings.
Avoid answering unknown international numbers.
Don’t call back missed calls from unknown numbers — especially from foreign country codes.
Keep software updated to prevent vulnerabilities.
For Businesses:
Use VoIP systems with built-in spam detection and call control.
Implement firewalls and session border controllers (SBCs) on your VoIP network.
Use multi-factor authentication for admin access to call systems.
Train staff to recognise voice phishing (vishing) attacks.
Why VoIP Might Be the Safer Communication Platform
Many people associate VoIP with risk – but in truth, a properly secured VoIP system can offer better protection than traditional landlines or mobile networks.
VoIP Safety Features:
| Feature | Traditional Telco | Business VoIP |
|---|---|---|
| Spam Call Blocking | Limited | Advanced filters, blacklists |
| Number Screening | Manual | Automated via AI and databases |
| Encryption | Rare | Often included (SRTP, TLS) |
| Call Reporting | Manual | Integrated dashboards and logs |
| Caller ID Controls | Basic | Full control over number display |
| Admin Control | Limited | Granular user management |
VoIP allows you to filter, block, trace and even record calls with much greater precision — all from a central dashboard. And with modern solutions supporting end-to-end encryption, you’re in a better position to resist phishing and fraud.
Can You Eliminate Spam Calls Entirely?
Unfortunately, no system is bulletproof. But by combining:
Smart user behaviour,
Security-focused VoIP systems, and
Proactive spam reporting,
…you can dramatically reduce your risk exposure and avoid falling victim to phone-based scams.
Final Thoughts: Time to Reconsider Your Communication Setup?
If your team or household is still using outdated telco lines or unsecured mobile numbers, you’re exposed. Upgrading to a modern VoIP system not only gives you better flexibility and lower costs. VoIP gives you tools to defend your data and your peace of mind.
📞 Looking for secure, spam-resistant VoIP options? Let WhichVoIP help you compare solutions and find a system that puts privacy and control back in your hands.
