The Ultimate Guide to Call Blocking
Pro Tip: Blocking is most effective when you combine "Network Level" blocking (stopping calls reaching you) with "Device Level" blocking (your phone automatically rejecting them).
The best way to deal with a nuisance caller isn't to argue with them—it's to ensure they can never speak to you again. Modern technology gives us powerful tools to erect digital fences around our phones. Whether you use a smartphone or a traditional landline, this guide provides step-by-step instructions to silence the noise.
Blocking on Smartphones
For iPhone Users (iOS)
Option 1: Block a Specific Number
- Open the Phone app and tap on Recents.
- Find the nuisance number and tap the blue (i) info icon next to it.
- Scroll to the very bottom and tap Block this Caller.
- Confirm by tapping Block Contact.
Option 2: Silence Unknown Callers (The "Nuclear" Option)
This sends any number not in your contacts straight to voicemail. Great for peace, but you might miss delivery drivers or doctor's calls.
- Go to Settings > Phone.
- Scroll down and tap Silence Unknown Callers.
- Toggle the switch to On (Green).
For Android Users
Note: Menus may vary slightly between Samsung, Pixel, and other brands.
Option 1: Block a Specific Number
- Open your Phone app and go to Recents/Call History.
- Long-press on the number you want to block.
- Select Block/Report Spam from the menu that pops up.
Option 2: Enable Built-in Spam Protection
- Open the Phone app and tap the three dots (menu) in the top corner.
- Tap Settings > Caller ID & Spam.
- Toggle on Filter spam calls to prevent suspected spam from ringing your phone.
Blocking on UK Landlines
Landlines are the biggest target for nuisance calls. Fortunately, UK providers have improved their free blocking tools significantly.
BT Call Protect
Cost: Free
How it works: Automatically diverts known spam numbers to a junk voicemail. You can also block specific numbers by dialing 1572 after receiving a nuisance call.
Sky Talk Shield
Cost: Free
How it works: An excellent call screening service. Callers are asked to state their name. You listen to the recording and choose to accept, block, or send to voicemail.
TalkTalk CallSafe
Cost: Free
How it works: Similar to Sky. Approved callers get straight through; blocked callers are rejected; unknown callers must identify themselves first.
Third-Party Apps (The Heavy Hitters)
For mobile users who want extra protection, third-party apps use massive community databases to identify scams in real-time.
-
Truecaller
The world's most popular caller ID app. It identifies unknown numbers and warns you of "Spam" in bright red.
Note: The free version contains ads. -
Hiya
A great alternative that focuses on security. It integrates well with Samsung phones (often built-in).
