How to Block Restricted Calls | Complete Guide

Receiving a call with no caller ID can be both annoying and unsettling. Whether it's a telemarketer ignoring your "Do Not Call" request or someone you'd rather not hear from, restricted calls disrupt your day and invade your peace. In this complete guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about how to block restricted calls on your phone.

From simple steps tailored to various phone models to understanding your legal rights, we're here to help you reclaim your calm and maintain your privacy. Let’s explore if you can you block a restricted calls and ensure that the only calls you receive are the ones you actually want.

Part 1. What Are Restricted Calls

Restricted calls mostly appear on your phone display as “Private,” “Unknown,” or “Blocked,”. These are the calls where the caller has intentionally hidden his caller ID. This feature is typically used for privacy reasons but can also be a tool for anonymous harassment or unwanted solicitations. When you receive a restricted call, you won't see the caller's phone number, making it impossible to know who’s calling without answering.

Individuals might choose to make a restricted call to maintain their privacy in various situations, such as when making a call from a company that wants to prevent direct callbacks to a specific line. However, this anonymity can be misused, leading to repeated unwanted calls without accountability.

Part 2. Should You Answer Restricted Calls

Deciding whether to answer a restricted call can be tricky. While some of these calls might be from friends or acquaintances trying to protect their privacy or from companies confirming transactions, there's always a possibility that answering could expose you to scams or persistent telemarketers. Understanding the nature of these calls is crucial to making an informed decision.

Assessing the risk: The primary concern with answering restricted calls is the lack of transparency about the caller's identity. This anonymity can be a red flag, especially in an era where phone scams are increasingly common. Scammers often use restricted or private numbers to avoid being traced, which means that even if the call seems harmless, it might not be.

Possible consequences: If you answer a restricted call and it turns out to be a telemarketer or a scammer, you could inadvertently signal to the caller that your number is active, potentially leading to more unwanted calls. On the other hand, if the call is legitimate but from an unknown number, you might miss important information or opportunities by not answering.

Precautionary measures: If you frequently receive these types of calls, consider implementing strategies to manage them without compromising your privacy. For instance, you can use your phone’s settings to block restricted calls or set up features that allow only known contacts to reach you directly. This approach minimizes interruptions and enhances your control over personal communication.

Making the decision: Ultimately, whether to answer a restricted call depends on your personal circumstances and your tolerance for risk. If you’re expecting a call from a hospital, for instance, you might choose to answer unknown numbers. However, if you’re not expecting any critical calls, it might be safer to ignore or block calls from restricted numbers until the caller uses a more transparent method to reach you.

In the following sections, we’ll explore more about how to block restricted calls on iphone and how to block restricted calls on android. Whether you’re looking for apps to block restricted calls on iPhone, Android, or through a service provider like Verizon, there are several options available to help maintain your peace of mind.

Part 3. How to Block Restricted Calls on Different Devices

Blocking restricted calls does not have to be a daunting task, whether you're using an iPhone, Android, or a landline phone. Each platform offers tools and settings designed to help you manage who can contact you. This section will guide you through the process of setting up call blocking on various devices, starting with the iPhone.

3.1. Blocking restricted calls on iPhone

For iPhone users, Apple provides built-in features to help manage and block unwanted calls, including those from restricted numbers. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to block restricted calls on iPhone:

Step 1. Use "Do Not Disturb" mode

Go to Settings > Do Not Disturb.
Turn on the manual option, which allows you to control when Do Not Disturb is active.
Select Allow Calls From and choose All Contacts. This setting ensures that only numbers in your contacts list will make your phone ring, effectively blocking calls from unknown or restricted numbers.

Step 2. Block specific contacts

Go to your Contacts app, tap + to add a new contact, and name it something like "Blocked Caller."
If you've previously received a call from a restricted number and it shows any specific digits, add these under this contact.
Scroll down in the contact profile and select Block this Caller.

Step 3. Use third-party apps

There are several apps that block restricted calls available on the App Store like "Hiya" or "Truecaller" that offer more sophisticated call blocking options, including the ability to detect and block restricted calls.
Follow the app’s setup instructions to activate call blocking features.

Step 4. Contact your carrier

Contact your service provider, as companies like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile offer additional services and tools to block unwanted calls.
Ask about any specific features they have to block restricted calls on iPhone and follow their instructions to enable them.
By following these steps, iPhone users can effectively manage and block restricted calls on Verizon, ensuring that only known and welcomed callers can reach them.

3.2. Blocking restricted calls on Android

Android users have several options to block restricted calls, thanks to the flexibility and variety of settings and apps available on this platform. Whether you're using a Samsung, Pixel, or any other Android device, here's how you can keep those unwanted calls at bay.

Step 1. Use built-in call blocking features

Open the Phone app and tap on the three dots in the upper right corner to access the menu. Select Settings.
Look for a section titled Blocked Numbers or Call Blocking and tap on it. The exact title may vary depending on your device and Android version.
Toggle on the option to Block unknown callers or Block private numbers. This setting prevents anyone whose number isn't visible or saved in your contacts from calling you.

Step 2. Use the "Do Not Disturb" feature

Go to Settings > Sounds and vibration > Do Not Disturb.
Under Exceptions or Allow exceptions, choose to allow calls from your contacts only. This guarantees that you will only be reached by people you know.

Step 3. Block calls manually

If a restricted number does get through and shows any digits, you can block it directly from your call log. Press and hold the call entry, and select Block number.
Some Android devices also offer an option to add numbers directly to an auto-reject list found under the More settings in the Phone app.

Step 4. Use third-party apps

Apps like "Call Blocker" or "Should I Answer?" are well-liked by Android users because of their powerful call blocking capabilities.
Install your chosen app and follow the setup instructions to begin blocking unknown or restricted calls. These apps often have the advantage of community-driven data to help identify and block potential spam or scam calls.

Step 5. Contact your carrier

Reach out to your mobile carrier to inquire about additional services they might offer for call blocking.
Carriers frequently offer apps or methods that offer an additional layer of protection against unsolicited calls, such as T-Mobile's "Scam Shield" and Verizon's "Call Filter."
By utilizing these steps, Android users can effectively manage and block restricted calls, ensuring a more controlled and disturbance-free mobile experience.

3.3. Blocking restricted calls on Landlines

Blocking restricted calls on a landline may seem more challenging than on modern smartphones, but there are still effective strategies and tools available to help landline users manage unwanted calls. SO, if you’re searching for ‘how do I block restricted calls if I’m using a traditional landline phone, here’s how.

Step 1. Use a call blocking device

Call blocking devices can be attached to most landline phones. These devices allow you to blacklist unwanted numbers and set up rules that reject anonymous or unknown callers.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to connect the call blocker to your landline. Once set up, you can start programming it to block calls from restricted numbers.

Step 2. Utilize star codes

Many landline providers offer a service called Anonymous Call Rejection. You can activate this by dialing *77 on your phone. This service automatically rejects calls from private or blocked numbers. To deactivate it, dial *87.
Some carriers also offer star codes that directly block individual numbers or set up other call blocking features. Check with your provider for the specific codes available.

Step 3. Contact your service provider

Call your landline service provider to ask about any call blocking features they offer. Providers often have systems in place to help manage unwanted calls.
If available, have your provider enable these features on your account, which may include blocking anonymous or specific unwanted numbers.

Step 4. Register on the National Do Not Call Registry

Registering your number on the National Do Not Call Registry can reduce the number of telemarketing calls you receive. While it won’t stop all unwanted calls, it can significantly decrease the number.
After registration, if you continue to receive unsolicited calls, you can report these to the registry for further action.

Step 5. Set Up custom call routing

For those who receive high volumes of unwanted calls, setting up an Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system can help. This system can be programmed to give callers options that screen out automated calls or direct them to voicemail.

By implementing these steps, landline users can effectively manage and block restricted calls, enhancing their privacy and reducing interruptions. Whether using technological tools like call blockers, leveraging provider services, or employing strategies like the National Do Not Call Registry, there are various ways to protect your landline from unwanted calls.

Part 4. Other Tips to Block Restricted Calls

In addition to the specific methods for blocking restricted calls on various devices, there are some general strategies that can be applied regardless of whether you're using an iPhone, Android, or even a landline. Here are some additional tips on how can you block a restricted call with step-by-step instructions.

#1. Turn on the “Silence Unknown Callers”

For iPhone users:

Step 1. Open ‘Settings’ on iPhone.

Step 2. Select Phone by swiping down.

Step 3. Locate and toggle on the Silence Unknown Callers option. This feature will silence calls from numbers not in your contacts, recently made calls, or numbers sent to you in an email.

For Android users (available on some models):

Step 1. Open the Phone app.

Step 2. To enter the menu, tap the three dots in the top right corner. Next, choose Settings.

Step 3. Find and select Blocked numbers.

Step 4. Toggle on the option for Block numbers not in contacts or similar options depending on the device.

Part 5. FAQs about How to Block Restricted Calls

Q1. Can I block restricted calls on any device?

Yes, you can block restricted calls on most modern communication devices, including smartphones and landlines. Depending on the device and operating system, the procedure could change. For smartphones, you can use built-in settings or third-party apps, while landline users might need a call blocking device or service from their provider.

Q2. How do I block restricted calls on my iPhone?

On an iPhone, you can block restricted calls by enabling the "Silence Unknown Callers" feature which is found under Settings > Phone. When a call comes in from a number that isn't in your contacts, this feature will immediately put it to voicemail.

Q3. What are some effective ways to block spam and robocalls on Android?

Android users can block calls using the built-in call blocking feature in the Phone app, where you can manually block numbers and set filters for unknown callers. Additionally, carriers like Verizon and T-Mobile offer services like Call Filter and Scam Shield to help block unwanted calls.

Q4. Are there apps that can block restricted calls?

Yes, there are several third-party apps available such as Truecaller, Hiya, and Nomorobo that offer robust call blocking features. These apps can identify spam and restricted calls, giving you the option to block them.

Q5. Can blocked numbers still leave voicemails?

Yes, on both Android and iPhones, blocked numbers can leave voicemails. The calls won’t ring on your phone, but the voicemail can still be recorded.

Part 6. Conclusion

Blocking unwanted calls doesn't have to be a hassle. With the steps provided in this guide, you can effectively manage and block restricted calls on any device, be it an iPhone, Android, or landline. Utilizing features like "Silence Unknown Callers" or services offered by your phone carrier can greatly reduce disturbances. By applying these methods, you maintain your peace and privacy. Always stay vigilant and keep your phone's blocking features up-to-date to ensure you stay ahead of unwanted callers. Whether you need to block restricted calls on iPhone or find an app to block restricted calls, the solutions are within reach to make your communication experience more pleasant.