How to Block Unwanted Calls and SMS

Tired of spam calls, telemarketers, or scam texts? The good news is, both Android and iPhone have built-in features to block unwanted calls and SMS. You can also use third-party apps for extra protection. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide.

Why Block Calls & SMS?

• Stop spam and scam calls.
• Avoid telemarketing and robocalls.
• Protect yourself from phishing via SMS.
• Enjoy peace of mind without constant interruptions.

How to Block Calls & SMS on Android

Method 1: Block from Call Log

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Go to Recent calls.
3. Tap and hold the number you want to block.
4. Select Block/report spam.

Method 2: Block via Contacts

1. Open the Phone app → Contacts.
2. Select the contact you want to block.
3. Tap the three dots (⋮) → Block numbers.

Method 3: Block SMS in Messages App

1. Open the Messages app.
2. Open the conversation from the unwanted number.
3. Tap the three dots (⋮) → Details → Block & report spam.

Method 4: Use Built-in Spam Protection

• In the Google Phone app, go to Settings → Caller ID & spam → Turn on Filter spam calls.
• This will automatically detect and block spam calls.

How to Block Calls & SMS on iPhone (iOS)

Method 1: Block from Call Log

1. Open the Phone app → Recents.
2. Find the number you want to block.
3. Tap the i (info) button next to it.
4. Scroll down → Tap Block this Caller.

Method 2: Block from Messages

1. Open the Messages app.
2. Open the conversation from the unwanted number.
3. Tap the contact at top → Info.
4. Scroll down → Block this Caller.

Method 3: Silence Unknown Callers

1. Go to Settings → Phone.
2. Turn on Silence Unknown Callers.
3. Calls from unknown numbers will go to voicemail.

Method 4: Filter Unknown Senders in Messages

1. Go to Settings → Messages.
2. Enable Filter Unknown Senders.
3. Unknown senders will be sorted into a separate tab.

Extra Protection: Third-Party Apps

If spam persists, try trusted apps:

• Truecaller (Android & iOS) – identifies spam calls.
• Hiya (Android & iOS) – blocks robocalls.
• Carrier apps – Many providers (AT&T, Verizon, Jio, Airtel) offer spam-blocking services.

Tips & Warnings

• Block vs. Report Spam: Blocking stops the number; reporting helps carriers and apps identify spam for others.
• Check voicemail: Blocked calls often go straight to voicemail.
• Don’t click suspicious SMS links: Many scam texts include dangerous phishing links.
• AI helpers: Tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, or Copilot can help draft polite auto-replies or detect spam messages.

FAQs

1. Will a blocked person know they’re blocked?

No. Calls go to voicemail, and messages won’t be delivered — but they won’t get notified.

2. Can I unblock a number later?

Yes, go to your blocked numbers list in Phone/Messages settings.

3. Does blocking stop WhatsApp or other apps?

No, you’ll need to block separately in WhatsApp, Telegram, etc.

4. Can I block international spam calls?

Yes, but it’s better to enable spam filter features or use carrier-level blocking.

5. Can blocked numbers still leave voicemail?

Yes, but you won’t get call alerts. You can delete voicemails manually.

Blocking unwanted calls and SMS is easy on both Android and iPhone:

• Use the Phone/Messages app to block specific numbers.
• Turn on spam protection or Silence Unknown Callers.
• Use third-party apps for advanced filtering.