Tired of incessant phone calls disrupting your peace? Fed up with unwanted solicitations and telemarketers invading your personal space? If so, it’s time to reclaim control over your Android device and silence those bothersome incoming calls. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore various methods to effectively block incoming calls on your Android smartphone, giving you the power to regain your tranquility and privacy.
One straightforward approach to blocking incoming calls is utilizing the built-in call blocking feature available in most Android devices. This simple yet effective method allows you to create a blacklist of specific phone numbers or contacts that you want to prevent from reaching you. To activate call blocking, navigate to your device’s Phone app, tap on the Menu button (typically represented by three dots or lines), select “Settings,” and then choose “Call Blocking.” From there, you can manually enter the numbers you wish to block, search your contacts for specific individuals, or enable the option to automatically block calls from unknown or hidden numbers.
For those seeking a more advanced level of call blocking, third-party apps offer a wide range of customization options and additional features. These apps often come equipped with sophisticated spam filters, the ability to block calls based on keywords or call patterns, and even the option to create personalized whitelists and blacklists. By utilizing these apps, you can fine-tune your call blocking strategy to suit your specific needs and preferences. Some popular and highly-rated call blocking apps for Android include Truecaller, CallApp, and Mr. Number. The app store provides a vast selection to choose from, so explore your options and select the one that best aligns with your requirements.
Disable Unknown Callers
If you’re tired of receiving endless phone calls from unknown numbers, Android devices offer several effective ways to block these unwanted interruptions. One of the best options is to disable unknown callers altogether. This means that any incoming calls from numbers not saved in your contacts or recently interacted with will be automatically silenced or sent to voicemail.
To enable this feature, follow these steps:
- Open the Phone app: Locate and tap on the Phone app icon on your Android device.
- Access the Settings menu: Tap on the three vertical dots in the top-right corner of the Phone app screen.
- Select ‘Settings’: From the drop-down menu that appears, tap on ‘Settings’.
- Navigate to ‘Blocking’: Scroll down in the Settings menu and tap on ‘Blocked numbers’.
- Enable ‘Block unknown callers’: Toggle the switch next to ‘Block unknown callers’ to the ‘On’ position.
By enabling this feature, you can significantly reduce the number of unknown calls you receive. However, it’s important to note that some legitimate callers, such as delivery services or appointment reminders, may also be blocked. If you’re expecting a call from an unknown number, you can temporarily disable this feature to receive it.
To temporarily disable the ‘Block unknown callers’ feature, simply toggle the switch back to the ‘Off’ position. You can also choose to block specific unknown numbers by adding them to the ‘Blocked numbers’ list.
Use Do Not Disturb Mode
Do Not Disturb mode is a feature available on Android devices that allows you to silence all incoming calls, notifications, and alarms. This can be useful when you want to focus on a task, get a good night’s sleep, or simply have some peace and quiet. To enable Do Not Disturb mode:
- Open the Settings app on your Android device.
- Tap on “Sound” or “Notifications.”
- Scroll down and tap on “Do Not Disturb.”
- Toggle the switch to “On.”
You can also customize Do Not Disturb mode to allow certain calls and notifications through. For example, you can allow calls from favorites, or set a time range when Do Not Disturb mode is active.
Exceptions:
The following calls and notifications will still come through even when Do Not Disturb mode is enabled:
| Alarms |
| Reminders |
| Calls from emergency contacts |
| Messages from emergency contacts |
| Notifications from certain apps (e.g., weather, traffic, etc.) |
You can also manually add exceptions to Do Not Disturb mode. For example, you can allow calls from a specific person or group of people, or allow notifications from a specific app.
Block Numbers Manually
Manually blocking numbers is a straightforward way to prevent unwanted calls from reaching your phone. To achieve this, follow these steps:
Identify and Select the Number to Block
Locate the recent calls list or open the contact details for the number you want to block. In the contact’s profile or conversation thread, tap on the “Block” or “Block Caller” option. Alternatively, you can add the number to your list of blocked contacts by accessing the phone’s settings.
Confirm the Blocking Action
After selecting the number, you will be prompted to confirm your action. Tap on the “Block” or “Confirm” button to complete the blocking process. The selected number will now be added to your blocked contacts list.
Manage Blocked Contacts
To manage your blocked contacts, access the phone’s settings and locate the “Blocked Contacts” or “Blocked Numbers” section. Here, you can view the list of blocked numbers and make any necessary changes, such as unblocking specific contacts or adding new numbers to the list. Additionally, you can set rules to automatically block calls from unknown or private numbers.
| Device | Settings Location |
|---|---|
| Samsung | Settings > Call Blocking and Caller ID |
| Google Pixel | Phone app > More options (three dots) > Settings > Blocked numbers |
| OnePlus | Settings > System > Phone Manager > Blocked numbers |
Set Up Call Filters
1. Open the Phone app on your Android device.
2. Tap the three dots in the upper-right corner of the screen.
3. Tap “Settings.”
4. Tap “Call blocking.” Here you have multiple options:
a. **Manual blocking**: Enter the phone number or contact name of the sender you want to block. This is useful for blocking specific individuals or unknown callers.
b. **Block unknown callers**: This option blocks calls from numbers that are not in your contacts or have been marked as unknown.
c. **Spam detection**: Android has built-in spam detection features that automatically identify and block potential spam calls. You can enable this option to reduce the number of unsolicited calls you receive.
Install Call Blocking Apps
Call blocking apps provide a comprehensive solution for managing incoming calls. They typically offer a range of features, including:
Blacklisting
Blacklisting allows you to create a list of specific numbers or contacts that you want to block. When a call from a blacklisted number is received, it will be automatically rejected.
Whitelisting
Whitelisting is the opposite of blacklisting. It allows you to create a list of numbers or contacts that you want to allow through, even if they are on the blacklist. This can be useful for important contacts or numbers that you need to receive calls from.
Unknown Caller Rejection
This feature automatically rejects calls from unknown or unrecognised numbers. It can be effective in reducing spam and robocalls.
Blocking Categories
Some call blocking apps allow you to block calls based on categories, such as telemarketers, spammers, and international numbers. This can help you filter out unwanted calls without having to manually create a blacklist.
Customisation
Many call blocking apps allow you to customise the way they operate. You can configure specific settings, such as the time of day when calls are blocked, and the way blocked calls are handled (e.g., sent to voicemail).
There are numerous call blocking apps available on the Play Store. Some popular options include:
| App Name | Features |
|---|---|
| Truecaller | Blacklisting, whitelisting, caller ID, spam detection |
| Hiyya | Blacklisting, whitelisting, caller ID, spam blocking |
| CallApp | Blacklisting, whitelisting, caller ID, spam blocking, call recording |
To install a call blocking app:
- Open the Google Play Store on your Android device.
- Search for a call blocking app of your choice.
- Tap on the “Install” button.
- Once the app is installed, open it and follow the setup instructions.
- Configure the app settings to suit your preferences.
Configure Phone App Settings
Block Numbers
The most direct way to block incoming calls is to block the specific numbers you don’t want to hear from. To do this:
- Open the Phone app on your Android.
- Tap on the “Contacts” tab and then search for the contact you want to block.
- Tap on the contact’s name and then tap on the three dots in the top-right corner of the screen.
- Select “Block Contact” and then confirm your choice.
Block Unknown Callers
If you’re receiving a lot of spam calls from unknown numbers, you can block them all at once. To do this:
- Open the Phone app on your Android.
- Tap on the three dots in the top-right corner of the screen and then tap on “Settings”.
- Scroll down to the “Calls” section and then tap on “Call Blocking”.
- Turn on the “Block calls from unknown numbers” option.
Use a Third-Party App
There are a number of third-party apps available that can help you block unwanted calls. These apps typically offer more advanced features than the built-in call blocking features in Android, such as the ability to block calls based on call type (e.g., spam calls, robocalls), the ability to create custom block lists, and the ability to schedule when calls are blocked.
Configure Conditional Call Forwarding
Conditional call forwarding allows you to forward incoming calls to another number or voicemail when certain conditions are met. You can use this feature to forward all incoming calls to a different number or to send all calls directly to voicemail during certain times of the day or when you’re busy. To set up conditional call forwarding:
- Open the Phone app on your Android.
- Tap on the three dots in the top-right corner of the screen and then tap on “Settings”.
- Scroll down to the “Calls” section and then tap on “Call Forwarding”.
- Select the type of call forwarding you want to set up and then enter the number you want to forward calls to.
Use a Call Blocking Service
Your cellular carrier may offer a call blocking service that you can use to block unwanted calls. These services typically charge a monthly fee, but they can be effective at blocking spam calls and robocalls. To sign up for a call blocking service, contact your cellular carrier.
Register with the National Do Not Call Registry
The National Do Not Call Registry is a government-run database of phone numbers that telemarketers are not allowed to call. To register your phone number with the National Do Not Call Registry, visit the National Do Not Call Registry website or call 1-888-382-1222.
| Type of Block | How to Configure |
|---|---|
| Block Numbers | Phone App -> Contacts -> Block Contact |
| Block Unknown Callers | Phone App -> Settings -> Call Blocking -> Block calls from unknown numbers |
| Use a Third-Party App | Download and install an app from the Google Play Store |
| Configure Conditional Call Forwarding | Phone App -> Settings -> Calls -> Call Forwarding |
| Use a Call Blocking Service | Contact your cellular carrier |
| Register with the National Do Not Call Registry | Visit the National Do Not Call Registry website or call 1-888-382-1222 |
Utilize Silence Unknown Calls Feature
Android 10 introduced a feature called “Silence Unknown Calls,” designed to reduce interruptions from unfamiliar numbers. When enabled, this feature automatically screens calls from numbers not in your contacts list or those you’ve recently interacted with. Here’s how to activate it:
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap the three dots in the top right corner.
- Select “Settings.”
- Tap “Blocked numbers.”
- Enable the “Silence Unknown Callers” toggle switch.
Once enabled, all calls from unknown numbers will be automatically silenced. You’ll still receive a notification for these calls, but your phone will not ring or vibrate. If you wish to answer a silenced call, simply tap the notification. This feature offers a convenient and effective way to minimize distractions and protect your privacy.
Additional Information
The Silence Unknown Calls feature also provides several customization options:
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Always silence | Automatically send all unknown calls to voicemail without notification. |
| Silence callers not in contacts | Only silence calls from numbers not in your contacts list. |
| Silence recently contacted | Silence calls from numbers you’ve interacted with within the past 24 hours. |
By customizing these options, you can tailor the feature to meet your specific needs and preferences, ensuring it provides the desired level of call screening.
Forward Calls to Voicemail
With this method, you can instantly redirect incoming calls to your voicemail, eliminating the need to manually decline or ignore them. Follow these steps:
- Open the Phone app on your Android device.
- Tap the three-dot menu icon in the top-right corner.
- Select “Settings.”
- Navigate to “Call forwarding.”
- Choose “Always forward.”
- Enter your voicemail number (typically your own phone number with a suffix, e.g., *86).
- Tap “Enable.”
Additional Details for Forwarding Calls to Voicemail
Note that the steps may vary slightly depending on your Android version and device. Additionally, some carriers may charge a fee for call forwarding. To ensure proper functionality, consider the following:
| Setting | Description |
|---|---|
| Always forward | Redirects all incoming calls, regardless of the time or context. |
| Voicemail number | Enter your voicemail number, which is typically your phone number with a suffix (e.g., *86). |
| Enable | Activates the call forwarding feature. |
| Disable | Turns off call forwarding, allowing you to receive calls directly again. |
Once you have set up call forwarding, all incoming calls will be automatically sent to voicemail. You can disable this feature whenever you need to resume receiving calls normally.
Modify System Settings
Modify the system settings on your Android device to manage incoming calls.
Enable Airplane Mode
Airplane mode disables all wireless connections, including cellular networks. This will block all incoming calls.
Do Not Disturb
Do Not Disturb mode silences incoming calls and notifications, allowing for uninterrupted focus or sleep.
Call Blocking
Block specific phone numbers or prefixes to prevent them from contacting you.
Restrict Background Data
Restrict background data for calling apps to prevent them from receiving incoming calls when the app is not in use.
Disable Call Notifications
Disable call notifications to prevent your device from alerting you to incoming calls.
Set Automatic Call Forwarding
Forward incoming calls to another number or voicemail to avoid receiving them on your device.
Use a Call Blocking App
Install a third-party call blocking app that provides advanced features, such as spam filtering and call recording.
Block Calls from Unknown Numbers
Set your phone to block incoming calls from numbers not saved in your contacts.
Enable Call Screening
Use call screening to automatically answer calls and ask callers to identify themselves before connecting you.
| Option | Impact |
|---|---|
| Airplane Mode | Blocks all wireless connections, including calls. |
| Do Not Disturb | Silences all incoming calls and notifications. |
| Call Blocking | Blocks specific phone numbers or prefixes from calling. |
| Restrict Background Data | Prevents calling apps from receiving calls when not in use. |
| Disable Call Notifications | Stops your device from alerting you to incoming calls. |
| Automatic Call Forwarding | Forwards incoming calls to another number or voicemail. |
| Call Blocking App | Provides advanced call blocking features, such as spam filtering. |
| Block Unknown Numbers | Blocks calls from numbers not in your contacts. |
| Call Screening | Answers calls automatically and asks callers to identify themselves. |
Consider Third-Party Operator Services
Certain mobile network operators offer services that allow you to block incoming calls from specific numbers or from unknown callers. These services may vary depending on the operator and may require additional fees. Here are some popular services offered by different operators:
AT&T:
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Call Protect Basic | Free |
| Call Protect Plus | $3.99 per month |
Call Protect Basic provides basic call blocking features, while Call Protect Plus offers advanced features such as fraud call detection and blocking, and the ability to create custom block lists.
Verizon:
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Call Filter | Free |
| Call Filter Plus | $2.99 per month |
Call Filter provides basic call blocking features, while Call Filter Plus offers additional features such as enhanced spam detection, caller ID verification, and the ability to block calls from specific area codes or countries.
T-Mobile:
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Scam Shield | Free |
| Premium Caller ID | $4.99 per month |
Scam Shield provides basic call blocking features, while Premium Caller ID offers additional features such as advanced fraud detection, the ability to identify international callers, and the ability to create custom block lists.
To activate these services, you can typically access them through your carrier’s website or app, or by dialing a specific code (such as *60# for AT&T’s Call Protect).
How to Stop Incoming Calls on Android
If you’re tired of receiving unwanted incoming calls, there are a few things you can do to stop them.
One way to block incoming calls is to use the built-in blocking feature on your Android phone. To do this, open the Phone app and tap on the three dots in the top-right corner. Then, select “Settings” and scroll down to “Blocked numbers.” Tap on “Add a number” and enter the phone number you want to block. You can also block numbers from your contacts list by tapping on the contact’s name and selecting “Block.”
If you’re receiving calls from a specific app, you can block those calls by disabling the app’s permissions. To do this, open the Settings app and tap on “Apps.” Find the app you want to block and tap on it. Then, tap on “Permissions” and disable the “Phone” permission.
If you’re receiving calls from unknown numbers, you can enable the “Do Not Disturb” feature on your phone. This will block all incoming calls except for those from your contacts list. To enable Do Not Disturb, open the Settings app and tap on “Sound & vibration.” Then, tap on “Do Not Disturb” and enable the switch. You can also customize the Do Not Disturb settings to allow calls from certain contacts or at certain times of day.
People Also Ask
How do I block incoming calls on Android from a specific number?
To block incoming calls on Android from a specific number, open the Phone app and tap on the three dots in the top-right corner. Then, select “Settings” and scroll down to “Blocked numbers.” Tap on “Add a number” and enter the phone number you want to block.
How do I block incoming calls on Android from unknown numbers?
To block incoming calls on Android from unknown numbers, enable the “Do Not Disturb” feature on your phone. This will block all incoming calls except for those from your contacts list. To enable Do Not Disturb, open the Settings app and tap on “Sound & vibration.” Then, tap on “Do Not Disturb” and enable the switch.
How do I stop robocalls on Android?
To stop robocalls on Android, you can use a call blocking app. There are many different call blocking apps available, so you can choose one that meets your specific needs. Some popular call blocking apps include Call Blocker, Truecaller, and Hiya. Once you’ve installed a call blocking app, you can set it to block calls from unknown numbers, from specific numbers, or from entire area codes.
