Receiving anonymous or private calls can be frustrating and intrusive, especially if they occur frequently. Thankfully, there are several ways to block anonymous or private calls on your mobile phone. In this guide, we’ll explore various methods tailored for different devices and provide insights on how to keep unwanted callers at bay.
Understanding the Need to Block Anonymous Calls
If you’ve been receiving calls from unknown numbers that either don’t show any information or are outright spam, it’s time to take control. Blocking these types of calls ensures peace of mind and protects your privacy.
Methods to Block Anonymous Calls on Android
Android phones offer several built-in methods to block anonymous or private calls. However, the exact steps can vary depending on the device manufacturer and model.
How to Block Anonymous Calls on Stock Android
Stock Android devices (such as Google Pixel phones) offer a straightforward way to block these calls using the Google Phone app.
Steps to Block Calls on Stock Android
- Open the Google Phone app.
- Tap the three dots in the top-right corner.
- Select Settings.
- Choose Blocked Numbers.
- Toggle the option for Block unknown callers.
This will prevent any incoming calls from unidentified numbers, allowing only known contacts to get through.
Blocking Anonymous Calls on Samsung Devices
Samsung’s version of Android (One UI) provides its own way to manage blocked calls, offering more granular control.
Steps for Blocking Calls on Samsung Phones
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap the three dots in the upper-right corner.
- Select Settings.
- Choose Block numbers.
- Toggle the Block unknown/private numbers option.
With this setting enabled, all private or anonymous calls will automatically be blocked.
How to Block Anonymous Calls on Huawei Devices
Huawei smartphones running on EMUI or HarmonyOS use a slightly different process.
Blocking Calls on Huawei Devices
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap the three dots in the upper-right corner.
- Select Harassment filter.
- Navigate to Block rules.
- Enable the Block strangers and Block hidden numbers options.
Huawei devices will now block both hidden and anonymous callers.
Blocking Anonymous Calls on Xiaomi Phones
Xiaomi devices usually come equipped with the Google Phone app, so blocking calls is similar to stock Android.
Steps for Blocking on Xiaomi
- Open the Google Phone app.
- Tap the three dots in the corner.
- Go to Settings.
- Select Blocked numbers.
- Toggle Block unknown callers.
You’ll no longer receive calls from unknown or anonymous numbers.
Blocking Anonymous Calls on iPhone
iPhones offer several ways to handle unwanted calls, including private or anonymous ones.
How to Block Anonymous Calls on iPhone
- Open Settings.
- Scroll to Phone.
- Select Silence Unknown Callers.
This feature will silence any calls from numbers not in your contacts, allowing only known contacts and recently called numbers to ring through.
Third-Party Apps for Blocking Anonymous Calls
If your phone doesn’t have built-in features to block anonymous calls, or you want more control, third-party apps can help. Here are some of the top apps for both Android and iOS users.
Truecaller
Truecaller is one of the most popular apps for identifying unknown callers and blocking spam or private numbers.
- Available for: Android, iOS
- Key Features: Call blocking, caller ID, and spam detection.
- Premium Features: Offers a subscription for advanced blocking features.
Hiya Caller ID & Block
Hiya is another effective tool for identifying and blocking unwanted calls, including anonymous ones.
- Available for: Android, iOS
- Key Features: Spam blocking, call ID, and call rejection.
Tellows
Tellows is particularly helpful for identifying spam and telemarketers, using a large database to warn you of suspicious calls.
- Available for: Android, iOS
- Key Features: Call identification and call blocking.
Calls Blacklist
This app allows you to manually block both specific numbers and anonymous callers. It’s simple and effective for blocking unwanted calls.
- Available for: Android
- Key Features: Blacklist creation, call blocking, and scheduling.
Blocking Anonymous Calls on Landlines
Landlines don’t typically have built-in features to block anonymous calls, but some services are available through providers.
Using Your Phone Provider’s Blocking Service
Many landline providers offer a call-blocking service that you can activate. Contact your provider’s customer service to inquire about blocking anonymous calls on your landline.
How to Block Spam Calls Alongside Anonymous Calls
Blocking anonymous calls is just one part of managing unwanted calls. Spam calls from telemarketers and robocallers are also a nuisance. Here’s how to block them.
Enable Spam Blocking Features
Many phones, particularly Android devices, come with spam filtering features built into the phone app. Samsung, for instance, allows users to block all potential spam and phishing calls with just a few taps.
What If I Still Receive Anonymous Calls?
If you’ve blocked anonymous calls but still receive them, here are a few troubleshooting tips.
Ensure Call Blocking is Enabled
Double-check that the Block unknown/private numbers option is toggled on in your settings. Sometimes, updates can reset these preferences.
Consider Changing Your Number
If the issue persists despite blocking, consider contacting your provider for further assistance or even changing your number as a last resort.
Conclusion
Blocking anonymous or private calls can significantly reduce the frustration of dealing with unwanted calls. Whether you use built-in phone features or third-party apps, managing anonymous calls is easier than ever. With the steps outlined above, you can take control of your phone’s privacy and enjoy a more peaceful communication experience.
FAQs
1. How do I block unknown callers on an iPhone?
You can block unknown callers by going to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers.
2. Can I block anonymous calls on an Android device?
Yes, you can block anonymous calls on Android by navigating to the Phone app > Settings > Blocked numbers and toggling the option for Block unknown callers.
3. Which third-party apps are best for blocking anonymous calls?
Truecaller, Hiya, and Calls Blacklist are some of the best apps for blocking anonymous or spam calls.
4. Can I block anonymous calls on my landline?
Yes, some landline providers offer call-blocking services. Contact your provider for details.
5. Do all smartphones have a built-in option to block anonymous calls?
No, not all smartphones have a built-in feature, but many Android and iPhone models do. If yours doesn’t, consider using a third-party app.
6. Can spam calls still get through after blocking anonymous numbers?
Yes, spam calls can still get through, but you can block them separately using a spam-blocking feature or third-party app.
7. Is there a way to block calls from a specific number?
Yes, most phones allow you to block specific numbers through the Phone app by adding them to a blacklist or blocked numbers list.
8. Will blocking anonymous calls affect calls from my contacts?
No, blocking anonymous calls won’t affect incoming calls from people in your contacts list or known numbers.
