How to Block Scam and Nuisance Calls on Any Phone

You can't stop scammers from dialling your number, but you can stop most of their calls from reaching you. A few minutes setting up the options below will cut down the interruptions a lot, and make the calls that do get through easier to spot.

Blocking a single number

iPhone

1. Open the Phone app and go to Recents.
2. Tap the small "i" next to the number.
3. Scroll down and tap Block this Caller.

Blocked numbers can't call, text or FaceTime you. You'll find the list under Settings, then Phone, then Blocked Contacts.

Android

1. Open the Phone app and find the number in your call history.
2. Press and hold it, or tap it and open the menu.
3. Choose Block or Block/report spam.

Menus vary slightly between Samsung, Google Pixel and other makes, but the option is always in the call history.

Home landline

Many cordless handsets have a block list in their settings. Your landline provider may also offer free call blocking, often by dialling a short code or through your online account. Look on its help pages for "call barring" or "nuisance call blocking".

Silencing unknown callers altogether

iPhone: Settings, then Phone, then Silence Unknown Callers. Numbers not in your contacts go straight to voicemail and still show in Recents.

Android: in the Phone app's settings look for Caller ID and spam, or Block numbers, where you can switch on spam filtering and, on many phones, block unknown or private numbers.

This is the single most effective setting, but it does mean you'll need to check voicemail for genuine callers like the doctor's surgery.

Using your network's spam protection

Most UK mobile networks now flag or block calls they've identified as likely scams. Some show "Suspected spam" on screen; others stop the call before it reaches you. Check your network's app or website for what's included and whether you need to switch it on.

Blocking withheld numbers

Calls from withheld or private numbers can't be looked up. Many landline providers can automatically reject them, and the caller hears a message asking them to call back with their number shown. Ask your provider whether this is available.

The Telephone Preference Service

Registering with the TPS is free and stops live sales calls from UK companies. It won't stop criminals, who ignore it, but it removes a lot of the legitimate-but-annoying calls so you can be more suspicious of whatever is left.

Call blockers for older relatives

If a parent or grandparent is getting a lot of scam calls on a landline, a dedicated call-blocking handset or plug-in device can help. Some only let through numbers on an approved list; others ask unknown callers to say their name before the phone rings. Some councils and charities can help supply them to people who are especially at risk.

Before you block: report it

Blocking protects you, but reporting protects others. Look the number up on Who Called Me Check, rate it, and add a line about what the caller wanted. Then block it.