How to Block Phone Numbers: 7 Effective Methods to Block Unwanted Calls and Texts

I. Introduction

It can be incredibly frustrating to constantly receive unwanted calls and texts from telemarketers, scammers, and ex-partners. But luckily, there are multiple ways to block phone numbers. In this article, we’ll explore 7 effective methods to stop unwanted numbers from contacting you.

II. Method 1: Using Your Phone’s Built-in Blocking Feature

Most modern smartphones come with the ability to block phone numbers built right into the device. Blocking a number on an iPhone is different from blocking a number on an Android phone, so be sure to follow the instructions that apply to your device.

1. Blocking Numbers on an iPhone

To block a number on an iPhone, follow these steps:

1. Open the “Phone” app
2. Go to the “Recents” tab
3. Find the number you want to block and tap the “i” icon next to it
4. Scroll down and select “Block this Caller”

If a blocked caller leaves a voicemail, it will still be saved in your voicemail inbox. However, you will not receive any notification that a voicemail was left.

2. Blocking Numbers on an Android Phone

To block a number on an Android phone, follow these steps:

1. Open the “Phone” app
2. Go to “Recent Calls”
3. Select the number you want to block
4. Tap “Details”
5. Tap “Block Number”

If a blocked caller leaves a voicemail, it will be placed in a separate “blocked messages” folder and you will not be notified.

III. Method 2: Downloading and Installing a Third-Party Blocking App

If your phone’s built-in blocking feature isn’t enough for your needs, you may want to consider downloading and installing a third-party blocking app. These apps can offer additional features and customization options.

Some popular blocking apps for iOS and Android include:

• Truecaller
• Hiya
• Mr. Number
• Call Blocker

Before downloading and installing a third-party blocking app, be sure to do some research to make sure it is reputable and safe to use.

IV. Method 3: Contacting Your Phone Carrier to Request a Number Block

If you’re receiving unwanted calls or texts from a specific number or numbers, you may be able to contact your phone carrier directly to request a number block. This method may be particularly helpful if you’re receiving harassing or threatening calls or texts.

To determine if this method is feasible for your situation, contact your phone carrier and explain the issue. Your carrier may be able to block calls or texts from specific numbers or even entire area codes. Be aware that some carriers may charge a fee for this service.

V. Method 4: Changing Your Phone Number Entirely

If you’re receiving a large number of unwanted calls or texts from a variety of different numbers, changing your phone number entirely may be an effective solution. However, this method should be reserved for particularly extreme situations, as it can be a hassle to update your number with friends, family, and service providers.

To change your phone number, follow these steps:

1. Contact your phone carrier and explain that you’d like to change your phone number.
2. Choose a new phone number that you’d like to use.
3. Update your phone number with any contacts or service providers as needed.

Be aware that changing your phone number may not be a foolproof solution, as scammers and telemarketers may still be able to acquire your new number and start contacting you again.

VI. Method 5: Silent Ringtone Solution

If you’d like to block calls or texts from a specific number without completely blocking them, the silent ringtone solution is a great option. The silent ringtone solution allows calls and texts from unwanted numbers to come through, but without bothering you with a ringtone or notification.

To set up a silent ringtone for individual contacts, follow these steps:

1. Download a silent ringtone from your phone’s app store.
2. Assign the silent ringtone to the specific contact that you’d like to silence.

Be aware that this method may not completely solve the problem, as you’ll still receive calls or texts from the unwanted number, and they’ll still show up in your call or text history.

VII. Method 6: Setting Up “Do Not Disturb” Mode

If you’d like to block all calls and texts during certain times of the day, the “Do Not Disturb” mode is a great option. With this mode enabled, all calls and texts will be silenced during a specified time period, such as during the night or during work hours.

To set up “Do Not Disturb” mode, follow these steps:

1. Go to your phone’s settings
2. Select “Do Not Disturb”
3. Choose the time period during which you’d like to block calls and texts
4. Customize which contacts are allowed to contact you during this time period if desired

Be aware that this method will block all calls and texts during the specified time period, not just calls or texts from unwanted numbers.

VIII. Method 7: Reporting Spam Phone Numbers to FTC

If you’re receiving unwanted calls or texts from telemarketers or scammers, you can report the number to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Reporting spam phone numbers to the FTC can help to build a case against fraudulent callers and can help to prevent other people from being targeted.

To report a spam phone number to the FTC, follow these steps:

1. Go to the FTC’s Complaint Assistant website
2. Select “Telephone” as the type of product or service
3. Select “Unwanted Telemarketing, Text, or SPAM” as the issue
4. Follow the instructions to submit your complaint

IX. Conclusion

Unwanted calls and texts can be a major hassle, but with the right approach, they can be effectively blocked. In this article, we’ve explored 7 effective methods to block unwanted numbers, including using your phone’s built-in blocking feature, downloading and installing a third-party blocking app, contacting your phone carrier to request a number block, changing your phone number entirely, using the silent ringtone solution, setting up “Do Not Disturb” mode, and reporting spam phone numbers to the FTC. Try out these different methods to find the one that works best for you, and say goodbye to unwanted calls and texts for good.