To block calls with Verizon Wireless, you can use the free Verizon Call Filter app, block specific numbers through My Verizon, or use your device's built-in settings.
Block calls with the free Verizon Call Filter app
Verizon Wireless offers the Call Filter app to screen and automatically block spam calls and report unwanted numbers. The free version includes spam detection, a spam filter that sends high-risk spam calls to voicemail, a spam and blocked call log, the ability to allow numbers, and the option to report spam. Verizon automatically blocks calls in the network from invalid telephone numbers or those on a Do Not Originate (DNO) list.
- Download the Verizon Call Filter app from your phone's app store.
- Open the app and log in with your Verizon account or create one if needed.
- Enable call filtering to automatically block high-risk spam calls.
- Review your blocked call log and report any numbers you consider spam.
You can manage Call Filter settings through the app or, for eligible devices, through My Verizon. The spam filter may inadvertently block wanted calls, so check your blocked log regularly.
Block specific numbers using My Verizon
Verizon's "Call & Message Block" service allows you to temporarily block up to 5 phone numbers for up to 90 days for free. This is a good option when you need a quick way to stop calls from a specific number without using the app.
- Sign in to the My Verizon website or open the My Verizon app.
- On the website: Navigate to Account > My plan > Blocks, select the mobile number, choose "Block calls & messages," enter the 10-digit number, and select "Block."
- In the app: Tap the Mobile tab, then "Manage devices," select the mobile number, tap "Settings & Preferences," then "Block calls & messages," tap "Add a number," enter the 10-digit number, and tap "Block number."
This service is not available if the line is enrolled in Verizon Family. Verizon Family allows account owners or managers to permanently block calls and messages for up to 20 numbers on a family member's line using the Verizon Family Guardian app.
Block calls directly on your iPhone or Android device
The quickest method for blocking a single number is to use your phone's built-in settings. This is useful when you want to know how to block a telephone number immediately after receiving a call. To temporarily block your own number from being displayed for a specific outgoing call, dial *67 before entering the number you wish to call.
On iPhone:
- Open the Phone app and tap "Recents."
- Locate the number you want to block and tap the blue "i" icon.
- Scroll down and tap "Block this caller," then confirm by tapping "Block contact."
On Android:
- Open the Phone app and tap "Recent."
- Find the number, tap the "i" icon, then tap "Block" and confirm.
Android users can also block unknown callers by opening the Phone app, tapping the three dots for the menu, selecting "Settings," tapping "Block Numbers," and toggling the "Block Unknown Callers" switch to green. For blocking calls and numbers on any phone, device-level blocking is the most direct approach.
Upgrade to Verizon Call Filter Plus for advanced blocking
Call Filter Plus is a paid upgrade that costs $3.99 per month per line, or $10.99 per month for 3 or more lines. It adds features like Caller ID, a personal block list, spam lookup, a spam risk meter, and the ability to block calls by category. If you need more control than the free version offers, this upgrade provides category-based blocking and a larger personal block list.
You can upgrade through the Call Filter app or My Verizon. The spam risk meter helps you decide whether to answer a call, and the personal block list lets you manage numbers beyond the five-number limit in the free My Verizon service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will blocked numbers still leave voicemails?
When you block a number using device settings or Call Filter, the caller may be sent to voicemail depending on your phone model and settings. Some devices redirect blocked callers to a separate blocked messages folder, while others prevent voicemail entirely.
How do I block unknown or private callers?
On Android, you can toggle "Block Unknown Callers" in the Phone app settings. On iPhone, there is no native setting to block all unknown callers, but Call Filter Plus can block calls by category, including unknown numbers.
How do I unblock a number?
To unblock a number, go to the same location where you blocked it. In Call Filter, remove the number from your block list. In My Verizon, delete the number from the "Call & Message Block" list.
What if Call Filter blocks a call I wanted?
The spam filter in Call Filter may inadvertently block wanted calls. Check your spam and blocked call log in the app, and if you find a legitimate number, add it to your allowed numbers list so future calls come through.
Can I block calls from specific area codes?
Call Filter Plus includes the ability to block calls by category, which can include area codes. The free version does not offer area code blocking, but you can manually block individual numbers using My Verizon or device settings.
