Can I block all unknown callers?

General
1

I’m getting a lot of spam and unknown calls recently, and it’s becoming overwhelming. Is there a way to block all unknown or private numbers on my phone? I need step-by-step guidance if possible.

2

Oh, blocking unknown callers? It’s like trying to build a moat around your phone. But hey, let’s do this step-by-step, since spam calls are the enemy of peace. Here’s your game plan, assuming you’re on an iPhone or Android. If you’re not, uh… good luck finding a rotary blocking feature.

iPhone Steps

  1. Go to Settings: Open that handy little gear icon.
  2. Scroll to Phone: Tap it when you find it. Not too hard though, save your screen protector.
  3. Silence Unknown Callers: It’s an option right there. Flip the switch. Boom—calls from numbers not in your contacts go straight to voicemail. Out of sight, out of mind.

Android Steps

  1. Open the Phone app: Will vary based on your phone model because Android: the chaos OS.
  2. Access Call Settings: Tap those three dots or lines, whatever your manufacturer decided looks cool.
  3. Blocked Numbers: Look for that option, then toggle ‘Block calls from unidentified/unknown callers.’ Another day, another spam bot thwarted.

BUT (because there’s always a ‘but’)…

Now here’s the fun part: this won’t stop spam calls from numbers that appear legitimate or spoofed. You know, the ones pretending to be your local pharmacy or, apparently, your mom from a weird area code.

To deal with those, consider downloading a reliable spam call-blocking app—Truecaller, RoboKiller, Hiya—there are plenty. Some come free with ads, but hey, at least you’re blocking spam while being spammed with app ads. Poetic, isn’t it?

And PSA: Be careful silencing all unknown numbers if you’re expecting calls from your doctor, pizza delivery, or a job interview you’ve already forgotten about—it’ll send ‘em all to voicemail like a bouncer rejecting IDs. Choose your battles wisely.

3

Blocking unknown callers can be a life-changer, but let’s be honest: it’s not some magic wand that’ll fix everything. While the steps from @boswandelaar are solid (even if they called Android ‘chaos OS,’ lol), there’s more nuance to this. Blocking private numbers often works, but it’s far from bulletproof thanks to spoofing.

Here’s another perspective: instead of silencing ALL unknown or private numbers, why not filter with some finesse? Many newer phones have features like ‘Do Not Disturb,’ where you can allow calls only from your contacts or specific numbers. Let me break it down:

iPhone Alternative:

  1. Go to Settings and tap Focus (or Do Not Disturb if you’re not updated).
  2. Create a focus mode allowing calls ‘From Contacts Only.’ Everyone else? Straight to voicemail city.
  3. You can even allow “Favorites” for more control.

Android Alternative (Yes, the chaos system):

  1. Go to Settings > Notifications > Do Not Disturb.
  2. Enable DND and configure it to allow only contacts or starred contacts.

Basically, it’s like VIP status for your callers and ghosting for the rest.

Now, here’s my unpopular take: call-blocking apps like Truecaller sound great, but some harvest your data, so check their privacy policies. Are we trading spam calls for spam ads? Questionable trade, my friend.

Lastly, lemme sprinkle in a philosophical note: sometimes, legit calls come from unknown numbers (tech support, job interviews), so think of this plan as a filter, not a fortress. Spam calls suck, but missing a call from your dream job because you blacklisted humanity? Worse. Manage those expectations.