How do I block unwanted calls and texts on my Android phone?
Blocking unwanted calls and texts on your Android phone can be done using built-in features or third-party apps. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Using Built-In Features
Block Calls
-
Using the Phone App:
- Open the Phone app.
- Go to the Recents tab.
- Find the number you want to block and tap on it.
- Tap on the More (three dots) icon.
- Select Block number.
-
Using Contacts:
- Open the Contacts app.
- Find and select the contact you want to block.
- Tap on the More (three dots) icon.
- Select Block numbers.
-
Call Settings:
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap on the More (three dots) icon or Settings.
- Select Settings.
- Tap on Blocked numbers.
- Add the number you want to block.
Block Texts
-
Using the Messages App:
- Open the Messages app.
- Open the conversation with the number you want to block.
- Tap on the More (three dots) icon.
- Select Details or Block & report spam.
- Confirm the block.
-
Messages Settings:
- Open the Messages app.
- Tap on the More (three dots) icon.
- Select Settings.
- Tap on Spam protection.
- Enable Enable spam protection.
2. Using Third-Party Apps
If the built-in features don’t meet your needs, you can use third-party apps to block calls and texts. Some popular options include:
Truecaller
- Features: Identifies and blocks spam calls and texts, caller ID, call recording.
- How to Use:
- Download and install Truecaller from the Google Play Store.
- Open the app and follow the setup instructions.
- Use the app to block unwanted numbers.
Hiya
- Features: Blocks spam calls and texts, caller ID, reverse phone lookup.
- How to Use:
- Download and install Hiya from the Google Play Store.
- Open the app and follow the setup instructions.
- Use the app to block unwanted numbers.
Call Blocker
- Features: Blocks calls and texts, blacklist, whitelist, call log.
- How to Use:
- Download and install Call Blocker from the Google Play Store.
- Open the app and follow the setup instructions.
- Use the app to block unwanted numbers.
3. Carrier Services
Many mobile carriers offer services to block unwanted calls and texts. Contact your carrier to see if they offer such services and how to enable them.
Examples:
- Verizon Call Filter
- AT&T Call Protect
- T-Mobile Scam Shield
Conclusion
By using the built-in features on your Android device or third-party apps, you can effectively block unwanted calls and texts. For additional control and advanced features, third-party apps like Truecaller, Hiya, or Call Blocker can provide more comprehensive solutions. Additionally, carrier-provided services can offer network-level blocking to enhance your protection.