I. Introduction
Getting incessant calls from unknown or private numbers can be intrusive and frustrating. Not only does it disrupt our daily routine, but it also poses a security risk. For this reason, it’s essential to know how to block unwanted calls from private numbers. In this article, we’ll explore several tips and tricks to help you get rid of these annoying calls for good.
II. Use Call Blocker Apps
Call Blocker apps offer an effective way to block unwanted calls from private numbers. These apps use a blacklist database that includes known spam callers’ numbers to block calls automatically. Some of the popular apps available for both iOS and Android devices include Call Blocker, Truecaller, and Hiya. These apps feature an intuitive user interface, powerful call filtering, call screening, and the ability to silence unwanted calls. To use call blocker apps, download and install them from the respective app stores and follow the instructions provided to set them up and use effectively.
III. Use Carrier Services
Most telecom carriers offer call blocking services that can be activated by contacting customer support. This feature is free to most customers, and the service will automatically block calls from private or unidentified numbers. But using this method can limit some aspects of call blocking such as blocking only unknown numbers, and it’s only free for some carrier customers. Moreover, it may require you to change your phone number, which can cause the inconvenience of updating your contacts, and you may experience other changes to your service.
IV. Use Your Phone Settings
Most modern smartphones come with an inbuilt call blocking feature that can be accessed through the phone settings. This feature allows you to add private or unknown numbers to the block list, thus automatically blocking all calls from those numbers. To access this feature, Go to your phone settings, select the “Call” or “Phone” option, and then select “Call Blocking” or “Block List.” This feature can be customized to include whitelisted and blacklisted numbers and allowed callers during specific times of the day or night.
V. Use Third-Party Call Blockers
Third-party call-blocking services offer an alternative to carrier services and call blocker apps. Most of these services offer a free trial period to test their effectiveness before committing to a paid subscription. Some of the advantages of third-party call-blocking services include flexibility, customization, and the ability to block calls from a specific area code or country. Popular third-party call blockers include PrivacyStar, Mr. Number, and Nomorobo.
VI. Don’t Answer Unknown Numbers
One of the simplest ways to block Private numbers is to stop answering calls from unknown or unfamiliar numbers. This method is especially useful for people who receive occasional random calls. If a call from a private or unfamiliar number is important, the caller will likely leave a message or call back. It’s important to note that some scammers use the “missed call” technique to get victims to call them back, so exercise caution before calling back.
VII. Activate ‘Do Not Disturb’ Mode
The “Do Not Disturb” mode is a convenient feature that blocks all incoming calls, alerts, notifications, and messages, except for specific groups or emergency numbers. This feature is available on both IOS and Android devices and is useful for occasions when you don’t want to be disturbed. To activate this mode, Go to phone settings, select “Do Not Disturb,” and then customize your settings by choosing the allowed groups and emergency contacts.
VIII. Activate ‘Silent Ringtone’
Using a silent ringtone can also block unwanted calls from private numbers. This method works by setting a silent ringtone for all unknown or private numbers calls. This makes it easier to differentiate between unknown and known callers. To set a silent ringtone for private or unknown numbers, download a silent ringtone and save it to your device’s media folder. Then go to contact settings, select edit, and assign the silent ringtone to that contact.
IX. Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several effective ways to block private numbers that can be customized according to your preferences and needs. Call blocker apps, carrier services, phone settings, third-party call-blocking services, the “Do not disturb” mode, and silent ringtones are some of the methods that you can adopt to block unwanted calls. It’s essential to choose the method that suits you best and to be aware of the potential limitations to avoid inconvenience. Whichever method you choose, it’s essential to stay safe and vigilant when receiving calls from unknown numbers and to never share sensitive information over the phone.
