5 Simple Steps to Block All Incoming Calls ~ future.housing.org.uk

Tired of incessant phone calls disrupting your peace? In this era of constant connectivity, it has become necessary to control the influx of unwanted calls. Whether it’s relentless spam calls, telemarketers interrupting your dinner, or simply the need for some undisturbed time, blocking incoming calls can provide much-needed respite. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of call blocking, empowering you with the knowledge and tools to regain control over your phone and enjoy the peace you deserve.

There are multiple approaches to blocking incoming calls, each with its own advantages and nuances. Understanding these methods will help you tailor your call blocking strategy to your specific needs. For Android and iOS users, the native settings offer built-in call blocking features. These allow you to block individual numbers, unknown callers, or even entire categories of calls. In addition, there are numerous third-party apps available that provide advanced call blocking capabilities, such as automated spam detection, caller ID lookup, and the ability to create customized blocking lists.

While call blocking can be an effective way to reduce unwanted calls, it’s important to use it responsibly. Legitimate calls from businesses or individuals may be inadvertently blocked, so it’s essential to create a balance. Consider adding trusted numbers to your contacts list to ensure they can still reach you. Additionally, some call blocking apps offer the option to set up exceptions for specific numbers or area codes. By carefully managing your call blocking settings, you can effectively minimize unwanted calls without compromising your accessibility.

Disable Call Forwarding

Call forwarding is a phone setting that redirects incoming calls to another number, such as a voicemail or another phone. If you want to block all incoming calls, you need to disable call forwarding so that calls are not redirected to another number.

To disable call forwarding on most phones, follow these steps:

Dial the call forwarding code

The call forwarding code is a special code that you dial to access the call forwarding settings. The code varies depending on your phone model and carrier, but it is typically *#61# or *#21#. You can also find the call forwarding code in your phone’s user manual.

Enter the call forwarding settings

Once you have dialed the call forwarding code, you will be prompted to enter the call forwarding settings. These settings will vary depending on your phone model and carrier, but they typically include options to disable call forwarding for all calls, for specific numbers, or for specific times.

Disable call forwarding

To disable call forwarding, select the option to disable call forwarding for all calls. You may be prompted to confirm your selection. Once you have confirmed, call forwarding will be disabled and all incoming calls will be blocked.

Here is a table summarizing the steps to disable call forwarding on most phones:

Step	Action
1	Dial the call forwarding code
2	Enter the call forwarding settings
3	Disable call forwarding

Block Calls via Carrier

Many major cell phone carriers offer call blocking services that allow you to block all incoming calls from specified numbers or from all numbers except those in your contacts list. The availability and specific instructions for these services vary by carrier, but here are the general steps for blocking calls via carrier:

1. Contact Your Carrier

Call or visit the website of your cell phone carrier. You may need to speak to a customer service representative to request call blocking services.

2. Activate Call Blocking

Follow the instructions provided by your carrier to activate the call blocking service. This may involve setting up a password or pin, or downloading a specific app or dialing a special code. Some carriers may charge a monthly fee for call blocking services.

3. Choose Blocking Options

Once the call blocking service is activated, you can choose the blocking options that you want to use. You may be able to block all calls, block calls from specific numbers, or block calls from all numbers except those in your contacts list. You may also be able to set up time-based blocking, such as blocking all calls during certain hours of the day or night.

4. Manage Blocked Numbers (Optional)

Depending on your carrier and the call blocking service you have set up, you may be able to manage the list of blocked numbers. You may be able to add or remove numbers from the blocked list, or view a list of all blocked numbers.

Carrier	Call Blocking Service	Instructions
AT&T	AT&T Call Protect	Download the AT&T Call Protect app or dial *60 to activate
Verizon	Verizon Call Filter	Dial *73 or visit the Verizon website to activate
T-Mobile	Scam Shield	Download the Scam Shield app to activate

Use a Call Blocking App

Many call blocking apps are available for both iOS and Android devices. These apps often offer additional features such as caller ID, spam detection, and the ability to block calls from specific numbers or prefixes. Some popular call blocking apps include:

App Name	Platform
Call Blocker by Inspira	iOS, Android
TrueCaller	iOS, Android
Hiya	iOS, Android

Detailed Guide to Blocking All Incoming Calls Using a Call Blocking App

Choose and Download a Call Blocking App: Select a reputable app that suits your needs and download it from the App Store or Google Play Store.
Configure the App: Open the app and follow the instructions to set it up. This typically involves granting the app necessary permissions to access your call logs and contacts.
Set Blocking Rules: Once the app is set up, you can customize your call blocking rules. Depending on the app, you may be able to block calls from unknown numbers, specific numbers, area codes, or international numbers.
Activate Call Blocking: Most call blocking apps have a toggle switch to activate or deactivate call blocking. Enable the feature to start blocking incoming calls.
Monitor and Adjust: Regularly check the app’s settings and blocked calls list to review the blocked calls and adjust the blocking rules if necessary.
Additional Features: Many call blocking apps offer additional features such as:
- Caller ID to identify unknown callers
- Spam detection to filter out known spam callers
- Custom blocking lists to manually add or remove specific numbers

Use a Landline with Call Blocking Features

Landlines from providers like AT&T, Verizon, and CenturyLink often offer call blocking services as part of their subscription packages. These services allow you to block specific numbers, area codes, or even entire categories of calls, such as telemarketers or robocalls. Here’s a detailed guide on how to use a landline with call blocking features:

1. Determine your service provider.

The first step is to determine which service provider you’re using for your landline. This information is usually printed on your bills or account statements.

2. Contact your service provider.

Once you know your service provider, you can contact its customer service department. They will be able to provide you with information on the specific call blocking features available for your account and guide you through the process of setting them up.

3. Choose the blocking method.

Most service providers offer multiple call blocking methods. Some common options include:

Method	Description
Per-number blocking	Allows you to block specific phone numbers.
Area code blocking	Allows you to block calls from all phone numbers within a specific area code.
Category blocking	Allows you to block calls from specific categories, such as telemarketers or robocalls.

4. Set up call blocking.

The specific method for setting up call blocking will vary depending on your service provider. In general, you will need to provide the phone numbers, area codes, or categories you want to block. Some service providers may allow you to set up call blocking online or through their mobile apps, while others may require you to call their customer service department.

a. Detailed instructions for a specific service provider (e.g., AT&T, Verizon, CenturyLink).

Here are step-by-step instructions on how to set up call blocking for some of the major landline service providers:

AT&T: Log in to your online account, go to the "Call Protect" tab, and follow the prompts to set up call blocking. You can also dial *60 from your AT&T landline to enable call blocking.
Verizon: Dial *77 from your Verizon landline to enable call blocking, then follow the prompts to set up your preferences. You can also manage call blocking online by logging in to your My Verizon account.
CenturyLink: Dial *60 from your CenturyLink landline to enable call blocking, then follow the prompts to set up your preferences. You can also manage call blocking online by logging in to your CenturyLink account.

b. Troubleshooting tips.

If you’re having trouble setting up or using call blocking, here are a few troubleshooting tips:

Check to make sure you’re using the correct phone number or area code.
Try disabling call blocking and then re-enabling it.
Contact your service provider’s customer service department for assistance.

Configure Android Call Blocking

1. Open the Phone App

Tap the Phone app icon on your home screen or app drawer.

2. Tap the Three-Dot Menu

In the top-right corner of the Phone app, tap the three vertical dots.

3. Choose “Settings”

From the drop-down menu, select “Settings.”.

4. Go to “Blocked Numbers”

Under the “Call Settings” section, tap “Blocked Numbers.”

5. Add a Number to Block

Tap the “+” button to add a number to the block list. You can manually enter the number or select a contact from your address book.

6. Advanced Blocking Options

To enable or disable specific call blocking features, tap “Advanced Settings” within the “Blocked Numbers” section:

Option	Description
Block Anonymous Calls	Prevents calls from unknown or hidden numbers.
Block Private Numbers	Rejects calls from numbers marked as private.
Block Spam Calls	Uses Google’s spam detection service to filter out suspected spam calls.
Block Selected Contacts	Allows you to manually block calls from specific contacts.
Block All Calls	Rejects all incoming calls except those from contacts marked as “Favorites.”

Block Calls on iPhone

To block calls on an iPhone, follow these steps

Open the Phone app.
Tap the Recents tab.
Find the number you want to block and tap the info button.
Tap the Block this Caller button.
Confirm that you want to block the caller and tap Block Contact.
The caller will now be blocked and will not be able to call you or send you messages.
You can also block calls from unknown numbers by going to Settings > Phone > Call Blocking & Identification and turning on the Block Unknown Callers option.

Here is a table summarizing how to block calls on an iPhone:

Method

Steps

Block a specific number

Open the Phone app.
Tap the Recents tab.
Find the number you want to block and tap the info button.
Tap the Block this Caller button.
Confirm that you want to block the caller and tap Block Contact.

Block unknown numbers

Go to Settings > Phone.
Tap Call Blocking & Identification.

Turn on the Block Unknown Callers option.

Use a Call Blocking Device

A call blocking device is a hardware device that can be connected to your phone line to block incoming calls. These devices are typically small and easy to use, and they can be a good option for people who receive a lot of unwanted calls.

There are several different types of call blocking devices available, so it’s important to choose one that meets your needs. Some devices simply block all incoming calls, while others allow you to create a list of blocked numbers. Some devices also have other features, such as the ability to record incoming calls or send them to voicemail.

How to choose a call blocking device

When choosing a call blocking device, there are several factors to consider, including:

The type of phone line you have. Some call blocking devices are only compatible with landlines, while others can be used with both landlines and cell phones.
The number of blocked numbers you need. Some devices can only block a limited number of numbers, while others can block hundreds or even thousands of numbers.
The features you want. Some devices have basic features, such as the ability to block all incoming calls or create a list of blocked numbers. Other devices have more advanced features, such as the ability to record incoming calls, send them to voicemail, or identify the caller ID of blocked numbers.

How to use a call blocking device

Once you have chosen a call blocking device, you will need to install it. The installation process will vary depending on the device you choose, but most devices are simply plugged into your phone line.

Once the device is installed, you will need to configure it. This typically involves creating a list of blocked numbers. You can add numbers to the list manually, or you can import a list of numbers from a file.

Table: Features of call blocking devices

Feature	Description
Number of blocked numbers	The number of numbers that the device can block.
Type of blocked numbers	The types of numbers that the device can block, such as landlines, cell phones, or international numbers.
Blocking methods	The methods that the device uses to block calls, such as call screening, call forwarding, or call rejection.
Additional features	Any additional features that the device offers, such as call recording, call forwarding, or caller ID identification.

Conclusion

Call blocking devices can be a helpful way to reduce the number of unwanted calls that you receive. By choosing a device that meets your needs and configuring it properly, you can create a more peaceful and productive environment for yourself.

Enable Do Not Disturb Mode

Do Not Disturb mode is a convenient feature that can be used to silence all incoming calls, messages, and notifications at once. This mode is particularly useful when you need to focus on a task, sleep, or simply want some peace and quiet.

To enable Do Not Disturb mode on your iPhone, follow these steps:

Open the Settings app.
Tap on the Do Not Disturb option.
Toggle the switch to the On position.

You can also customize the Do Not Disturb mode settings to allow certain calls and notifications to come through. For example, you can allow calls from your favorites list or from specific numbers.

Contact Your Service Provider

If you’re experiencing an overwhelming number of unwanted calls, your service provider can assist you in blocking all incoming calls. Here are detailed steps on how to reach out to your service provider:

1. Dial Customer Support

Locate the customer support phone number on your service provider’s website or bill. Dial the number and follow the prompts to connect with a customer service representative.

2. Explain Your Situation

Clearly convey that you wish to block all incoming calls. Provide specific reasons for your request, such as harassment, unwanted solicitations, or excessive spam calls.

3. Request Call Blocking Service

Inquire about the call blocking service offered by your service provider. Explain that you would like to block all incoming calls from all numbers, including known and unknown numbers.

4. Verify Service Availability

Confirm with the representative if the call blocking service is available on your account. Inquire about any additional fees or restrictions associated with the service.

5. Discuss Activation Process

Ask the representative to guide you through the activation process for the call blocking service. They may provide you with a short code or instructions to follow.

6. Follow Instructions

Carefully follow the instructions provided by the representative. If necessary, note down any short codes, PINs, or other information required to activate the service.

7. Confirm Activation

Once you complete the activation process, ask the representative to confirm that the call blocking service is now active on your account.

8. Test Service

After activating the service, try making a call to your own number. If the call is blocked, it indicates that the service is functioning correctly.

9. Allow Time for Implementation

Depending on your service provider, it may take some time for the call blocking service to become fully implemented. Be patient and allow several hours or even up to 24 hours for the service to take effect.

10. Troubleshooting and Support

If you encounter any issues or have questions about the call blocking service, don’t hesitate to reach out to your service provider’s customer support again. They can assist you with troubleshooting, provide additional information, or answer any other queries you may have.

How To Block All Incoming Calls

If you’re tired of getting unwanted phone calls, you can block them all with a few simple steps. Here’s how to do it:

Open the Settings app on your phone.
Tap on the “Phone” or “Call Blocking” option.
Tap on the “Block List” or “Blocked Contacts” option.
Tap on the “Add” button.
Enter the phone number of the person you want to block.
Tap on the “Block” button.

Once you’ve blocked a number, they won’t be able to call you anymore. You can unblock a number at any time by following the same steps and tapping on the “Unblock” button.