Why Blocking Unwanted Calls Matters
Unwanted calls — whether from telemarketers, robocallers, or outright scammers — are a daily frustration for millions of people. The good news is that modern smartphones and even traditional landlines offer multiple layers of protection. This guide walks you through every option available, from built-in phone settings to third-party apps and carrier-level tools.
Blocking Calls on an iPhone
- Open the Phone app and go to your Recents tab.
- Tap the (i) information icon next to the number you want to block.
- Scroll down and tap "Block this Caller", then confirm.
To enable additional protection, go to Settings → Phone → Silence Unknown Callers. This sends all calls from numbers not in your contacts directly to voicemail.
You can also enable Call Filtering by downloading a third-party app and enabling it under Settings → Phone → Call Blocking & Identification.
Blocking Calls on Android
Steps vary slightly by manufacturer, but the general process is:
- Open the Phone app and tap Recents.
- Long-press the number you want to block, or tap the three-dot menu.
- Select "Block number" or "Block / report spam".
On Google Pixel phones, the built-in Call Screen feature (powered by Google Assistant) can intercept unknown calls and ask the caller to identify themselves before your phone rings.
Blocking Calls on a Landline
Landline options depend on your service provider, but common methods include:
- Anonymous Call Rejection (*77): Dial *77 to block calls from callers who have withheld their number. Dial *87 to disable it.
- Call Blocking Services: Many providers (BT, AT&T, etc.) offer optional call-blocking add-ons.
- Third-party devices: Standalone call-blocking devices like the CPR Call Blocker plug into your landline and filter known spam numbers.
Using Your Carrier's Built-In Tools
Major phone carriers now offer free or low-cost spam call filtering:
| Carrier | Service | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| AT&T | ActiveArmor | Free (basic) / Paid (advanced) |
| Verizon | Call Filter | Free (basic) / Paid (plus) |
| T-Mobile | Scam Shield | Free |
| EE (UK) | Spam Call Blocking | Free |
| Vodafone (UK) | TrueCall | Free |
Best Third-Party Call Blocking Apps
- Hiya: Available for iOS and Android; identifies spam and scam calls using a large community database.
- Truecaller: Popular globally; shows caller names and flags spam numbers.
- RoboKiller: Answers and "wastes" robocallers' time with audio bots.
- Nomorobo: Works on VoIP landlines and mobile devices.
Registering with the Do Not Call Registry
In the United States, you can register your phone number at donotcall.gov to reduce calls from legitimate telemarketers. Keep in mind this does not stop scammers, but it does reduce legal marketing calls. UK residents can register with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) at tpsonline.org.uk.
Quick Tips Summary
- Block individual numbers directly through your phone's call log.
- Enable "Silence Unknown Callers" on iPhone or "Spam Protection" on Android.
- Activate your carrier's free spam filtering service.
- Consider a third-party call blocking app for enhanced protection.
- Register on the Do Not Call Registry to reduce legitimate marketing calls.