Callfilter.app vs Whoscall

Callfilter.app is an Android app that blocks incoming calls according to rules set by the user. It can reject 8-digit numbers, numbers on a personal list, custom-pattern matches, or all incoming calls. Custom matching supports regular expressions, and users can choose to receive a notification when a call is rejected. CallFilter checks calls on the device through Android’s CallScreeningService API, using a local SQLite-based rule engine without remote database lookups. The maker describes it as offline, with no accounts or tracking. Its privacy policy says the app does not send personal data to external servers and does not use third-party SDKs, advertising networks, or tracking libraries. The app is free and open source, and the maker invites users to audit or contribute to the project on GitHub. It filters calls according to the user’s settings; it does not replace the phone app. The Play Store listing warns that some features may not work correctly on Samsung devices running Android 12 or later.

Whoscall identifies incoming callers in real time and blocks spam and scam calls on Android and iOS. Its AI checks phone numbers, links, and screenshots against trusted data to flag possible risks. The app also offers Scam SOS, with one-tap access to bank hotlines and online scam reports, and Voice Alerts that warn about suspected scam calls; both features vary by region. Users can report scams and earn points and badges, contributing information to the community. Whoscall says its number database holds more than 2.6 billion entries. The free plan includes caller ID, call blocking, checks for numbers, links, and screenshots, and scam reports and rewards. Paid Individual, Duo, and Family plans add account sharing, database updates, an SMS assistant, ad-free use, and automatic spam blocking; Live Caller ID Plus is limited to iOS 18 or later. Individual costs $27 a year. Business customers can apply for Verified Business Number, which displays a verified company name and logo and requires a minimum six-month purchase.