How to Block a Phone Number: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction to Call Blocking

Call blocking is a feature that allows you to prevent unwanted phone calls from reaching you. It can be a useful tool for avoiding spam calls, telemarketers, and other types of unwanted callers. With call blocking, you can prevent a specific phone number from calling you, or you can block all calls from unknown numbers. Most smartphones and landline phones have call blocking features built-in, and they are typically easy to use. In the following sections, we will provide step-by-step instructions for how to block a phone number on Android and iOS devices, as well as on landline phones.

How to Block a Phone Number on Android Devices

Blocking a phone number on an Android device is a straightforward process. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Open the Phone app on your Android device.
2. Find the phone number you want to block in your call log or contacts list.
3. Tap and hold on the phone number until a menu appears.
4. Select “Block number” from the menu.
5. Confirm that you want to block the number.

Once you’ve completed these steps, calls from the blocked number will no longer reach you, and they won’t be able to leave voicemails or send text messages. If you change your mind and want to unblock the number later, you can do so from the Phone app’s settings.

How to Block a Phone Number on iOS Devices

Blocking a phone number on an iOS device is also a straightforward process. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open the Phone app on your iPhone.
2. Find the phone number you want to block in your recent calls list or contacts list.
3. Tap the “i” icon next to the phone number.
4. Scroll down and select “Block this Caller.”
5. Confirm that you want to block the number.

Like with Android devices, calls from the blocked number will no longer reach you, and they won’t be able to leave voicemails or send text messages. If you want to unblock the number later, you can do so from the Phone app’s settings. Additionally, you can manage your blocked contacts list from the Settings app, where you can add or remove numbers.

How to Block a Phone Number on Landline Phones

Blocking a phone number on a landline phone can vary depending on the phone model and service provider. Here are some general steps to follow:

1. Dial *60 from your landline phone.
2. Follow the voice prompts to activate call blocking.
3. Enter the phone number you want to block, or select it from a list of recent calls.
4. Follow the voice prompts to confirm that you want to block the number.

Some landline phone service providers may offer additional call blocking options, such as blocking calls from anonymous or international numbers. Check with your provider to see what options are available to you. If you want to unblock a number later, you can dial *80 and follow the voice prompts to remove the block.

How to Unblock a Phone Number and Other Considerations

If you’ve blocked a phone number but later decide you want to unblock it, the process is generally straightforward. Here’s how to do it on a smartphone:

• Android: Open the Phone app, tap the three-dot menu in the top-right corner, select “Settings,” then “Blocked numbers,” and finally, tap the “X” next to the number you want to unblock.
• iOS: Open the Phone app, tap the “i” icon next to the blocked number, scroll down and select “Unblock this Caller.”

It’s important to note that call blocking is not foolproof, and some persistent callers may still find ways to reach you. If you’re receiving harassing or threatening calls, contact your phone service provider or local law enforcement for assistance. Additionally, consider adding your phone number to the National Do Not Call Registry to reduce the number of unwanted calls you receive.