What is call labeling?
Call labeling is when a carrier or app adds a category such as 'spam' or 'scam likely' to an incoming call's caller ID to warn the person.
Why it matters for sales teams
With labeling, the call still rings, but the prospect sees a warning next to the number. The FCC describes labeling services that display categories for potentially unwanted or illegal calls, such as "spam" or "scam likely," on a caller ID display. Carriers and their analytics partners, and some third-party apps, decide which calls get a label. The FCC says they judge calls based on call patterns, consumer complaints or other means.
The caller does not see the label. Because each carrier relies on its own analytics, the same number can be labeled on one network and clean on another.
Example
A prospect's phone rings with the label Spam Likely under the number. The prospect lets it go to voicemail. The rep hears ringing and then voicemail, with no hint that a label was shown.
Call labeling vs call blocking
Call blocking stops the call from reaching the person. Labeling lets it through with a warning. Both rely on analysis of call data and complaints, which together make up a number's reputation.