Block a number on your phone
Most smartphones let you block a specific number from your call log or messages.
- iPhone: open the Phone app, find the number in your recent calls, tap the “i” symbol next to it and choose “Block this Caller”.
- Android: in the Phone app’s settings, choose “Call Settings” then “Blocked Numbers”, and add the number with the “+” button. Menus differ a little between makers.
- Samsung Galaxy: Smart Call can warn you about suspected spam or scam calls; it is turned on under Settings, “Caller ID and spam protection”.
Many phones also have built-in spam filters for calls and texts: check they are switched on. If you add a call-blocking app, Ofcom advises using only apps from trusted sources such as the Apple App Store or Google Play.
What your network offers
Some providers filter known scam numbers on the network, before they reach you; ask yours what it offers.
- EE offers Scam Guard, which it says detects and blocks spam and fraud calls without blocking important calls. It also publishes the numbers its partners call from, so you can cross-check a caller.
- O2 asks customers to email nuisance@telefonica.com with their number and the numbers calling them, and says it will notify the regulators.
- Vodafone says it monitors its network to block nuisance calls at source. For harassing or abusive calls, its Nuisance Call Bureau opens a case file for a criminal investigation, with details of at least three calls.
- Three asks customers to report unwanted calls to 7726, which it says allows networks to block numbers causing distress.
On a landline
- Caller display shows the caller’s number, but not always, and the number can be faked.
- Many landline providers offer call blocking or filtering, including anonymous call rejection. Vodafone notes that anonymous call rejection stops calls from withheld numbers, but not from unknown or masked ones.
- Call-blocking handsets can block withheld numbers, or any number not in your contacts. Ofcom says these can be particularly useful for older or more vulnerable people.
Stop sales calls with the TPS
The Telephone Preference Service is the UK’s only official “do not call” register for landlines and mobiles. Registering is free: online, by phone on 0345 070 0707, or by texting “TPS” and your email address to 85095.
Organisations must screen their call lists against the register at least once every 28 days, so it can take that long for sales calls to stop. There is a separate register for business numbers, the Corporate TPS. The TPS tells legitimate marketers not to call you; it will not block scam calls.
Report as well as block
Blocking protects you; reporting helps protect others. Send the number in a free text to 7726: your mobile provider can investigate and block it. Vodafone says reports to 7726 alert all mobile providers.
Helping an older relative
Ofcom suggests a few simple things for someone who may be more at risk:
- Talk about common scams and their warning signs.
- Help them set up call blocking on their mobile or home phone.
- Encourage them to check with you, or someone they trust, before sending money or sharing details.
- Help them report suspicious contact to 7726 and, if money is involved, to Report Fraud or Police Scotland.