Comcast now "verifies" that the incoming call is from a bona-fide number by putting "[V]" ahead of the displayed number on caller ID. This is for users who have VOIP phones ("land-line" phone coming in over the internet).
We'll see how long until the scammers can spoof this, too.
How the phone is handled here (I have NoMoRobo):
The phone rings...
-- If it's a known scam call, NoMoRobo cuts it between the 1st and 2nd ring (when called ID is transmitted). The call ends.
-- If it's a non-verified number, and I KNOW it's not a number from which I would receive any legitimate call (out-of-state area code), I just "lift and drop" the receiver. The call ends.
-- If it's a non-verified number, and I'm uncertain about it, I let it "go to the answering machine". If it's a spoofed RoboCall the robot itself cuts the call after the answering message is played. If it's a recorded message or even actual person, I review it after the caller hangs up. 90% of the time I just hit "delete" and it's gone.
-- If it's a verified number, and I recognize the number or caller name, then I -might- answer it by lifting the receiver. No promises, however -- sometimes I'd rather not be bothered. If it's a legitimate caller, I -might- call them back. No promises.
As you have probably discerned, I don't care for the telephone, and use it rarely.