Blocking a phone number can be a powerful tool to stop unwanted calls, texts, and messages from a person, whether it’s from an ex, a family member, or simply an annoying caller. It’s a way to reclaim your peace of mind. But what happens when you block a number? Does the other person know that they’ve been blocked? This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about blocking a number on both Android and iPhone, addressing the process, what occurs after blocking, and answering frequently asked questions.
What Happens When You Block a Number?
When you block a number, you are essentially cutting off that contact’s ability to communicate with you through regular phone calls, SMS, or MMS messages. However, the specifics can vary depending on your device, operating system, and carrier.
Calls
When you block a number, incoming calls from that contact are automatically declined. On some networks, the call may go directly to voicemail, but you won’t receive notifications of any new voicemails left behind. Interestingly, even though you have blocked the contact, you are still able to call them.
Text Messages
Blocked contacts will no longer be able to send you text messages. From their perspective, the messages may seem to have been sent successfully, but you won’t receive them. If you attempt to send a message to a blocked number, they won’t be able to respond to it.
Other Messaging and Calling Apps
Blocking a number on your phone only affects regular calls and SMS messages. On Android devices, this doesn’t impact communication through apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, or other third-party messaging platforms. For that, you’ll need to block the person separately within those apps as well.
For iPhone users, blocking a contact prevents them from calling or texting you via standard methods, including FaceTime and iMessage. However, the blocked contact can still reach you on other apps unless you specifically block them there as well.
Will the Blocked Person Know?
In short, no, the blocked person will not be notified that they’ve been blocked. When they try to call you, they may hear a message stating “the number is busy” or “out of service.” If they try sending a text message, it will show as “sent,” but you won’t receive it. The blocked person won’t receive any direct indication that they’ve been blocked.
After multiple attempts to contact you, however, the blocked person might begin to suspect something is wrong. They will not receive an official notification, but they might notice that their messages and calls are never getting through.
What Happens When the Blocked Person Calls You?
When a blocked contact attempts to call you, the behavior may vary slightly depending on your carrier. Some carriers will send the caller a message saying that the call cannot be completed, while others may disconnect the call after just one ring. However, the blocked person will never be informed directly that they have been blocked.
How to Block a Number
Blocking a number is a straightforward process on both Android and iPhone devices.
- On Android: Open the Phone app, select the contact you want to block, and choose the “Block Number” option from the contact’s details.
- On iPhone: Open the contact or recent caller’s number and tap on “Block this Caller” to stop further communication.
How to Unblock a Number
If you decide to unblock a contact, the process is just as simple.
- On Android: Go to the Phone app, open Settings, navigate to “Blocked Numbers,” and tap the “X” next to the blocked contact.
- On iPhone: Open Settings, select “Phone,” then go to “Blocked Contacts.” Tap “Edit,” and remove the contact from the blocked list.
What Happens After Unblocking a Number?
When you unblock a number, the contact will be able to call and message you again, but any messages or calls that were attempted while they were blocked will not be received. There will also be no call history from the period during which they were blocked.
Other Ways to Stop Receiving Calls Without Blocking
If you don’t want to fully block someone but still need a way to avoid their calls and messages, you can mute their notifications. Both Android and iPhone devices allow you to mute specific contacts, ensuring you don’t receive alerts for their calls or texts. This option is less drastic than blocking and can provide a way to manage communication without cutting ties completely.
Conclusion
Blocking a number is an effective way to protect your privacy and maintain boundaries, especially when dealing with unwanted calls or messages. While it prevents standard phone calls and texts, it doesn’t stop communication on third-party messaging apps unless you block the contact there as well. Additionally, the blocked person won’t receive any notification, allowing you to take control over your communications with peace of mind.
For those who don’t want to fully block a person, muting their contact or using other tools to limit communication can be a flexible alternative. Understanding how to manage blocked contacts can help you better protect your digital space.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does Blocking a Number Delete It From My Contacts?
No, blocking a number does not delete it from your contacts. If you unblock the number later, it will still be available in your contact list.
2. How Can I Block a Number?
To block a number:
- On Android: Open the Phone app, tap the contact, and select “Block Number.”
- On iPhone: Open the contact or recent caller’s number and tap “Block this Caller.”
3. How Can I Unblock a Number?
To unblock a number:
- On Android: Go to the Phone app > Settings > Blocked Numbers > tap the X next to the contact.
- On iPhone: Go to Settings > Phone > Blocked Contacts, tap “Edit,” and remove the number.
4. What Happens After Unblocking a Number?
Once unblocked, the contact can call and message you again. However, any messages or calls attempted while the number was blocked will not be received.
5. Can I Stop Receiving Calls Without Blocking?
Yes, you can mute a contact’s calls and messages without blocking them. Both Android and iPhone devices offer options to mute specific contacts, allowing you to avoid their notifications while still keeping them in your contact list.