
Unwanted calls and telephone scams are becoming increasingly common, including calls from numbers based in France and abroad. To help citizens and residents protect their mobile phones, the Government of Monaco and Monaco Telecom are promoting free solutions that can identify and block numbers reported as suspicious.
The aim is to reduce automated calls, limit unwanted marketing calls and raise awareness of the risks associated with digital fraud.
To help tackle unwanted calls, users can download Saracroche and Blocall, two free French applications available for iOS and Android devices.
Both apps use a collaborative reporting system: users can flag suspicious numbers, helping the applications identify and block a large number of calls reported as unwanted.
Their features go beyond phone calls. The apps can also identify certain fraudulent text messages, providing an additional way to spot phishing attempts and potentially dangerous messages.
According to information provided by the Government of Monaco and Monaco Telecom, these solutions are designed to protect users’ privacy and personal data.
Installing one of these applications can be a useful first step towards improving smartphone security. However, users should remain vigilant: no filtering system can guarantee that every unwanted call or fraudulent message will be blocked.
To make these tools easier to use, the Maison du numérique in Monaco offers dedicated support. The centre runs workshops to help users install the applications and understand their main features.
Anyone seeking assistance can also visit the Maison du numérique directly, without necessarily booking a place at a scheduled workshop, and ask the advisers for help.
In addition to practical support with the apps, the advisers provide guidance on recognising online scams, protecting personal information and adopting safer habits when using smartphones and digital services.
Prevention remains essential. Users should never share passwords or verification codes with strangers, avoid clicking on suspicious links and always verify the identity of anyone requesting personal or banking information.
Established in 2021 by Monaco Telecom in partnership with the Government of the Principality and Monaco City Hall, the Maison du numérique provides free information, assistance and support to encourage people to use digital technologies confidently and responsibly.
Since opening, the centre has welcomed more than 2,000 people, reinforcing its role in helping citizens navigate digital services and promoting good online security practices.
Practical information
To reduce the risk of receiving fraudulent calls and messages, users can combine dedicated apps with a few simple everyday precautions. Avoid calling back suspicious unknown numbers, never disclose sensitive information over the phone and report suspicious messages to help improve your security.
With Saracroche and Blocall, together with the support offered by the Maison du numérique, citizens and residents of the Principality have access to free tools to help them tackle spam calls and telephone fraud more confidently.
