How to Block Calls from Facebook: A Definitive Guide

So, you’re tired of those unexpected Facebook Messenger calls disrupting your peace? We get it. It’s one thing to connect with friends and family, but another to be bombarded with unwanted audio or video interruptions. Let’s cut to the chase: Blocking calls from Facebook is not only possible but also surprisingly straightforward. Here’s exactly how to do it, along with everything else you need to know to reclaim your digital serenity.

The most effective way to block calls completely from a specific person on Facebook Messenger is to block that person entirely. This prevents them from calling, messaging, or interacting with you on the platform. Alternatively, you can mute calls from specific individuals or disable notifications to reduce interruptions. The specific method you choose depends on your desired level of interaction and your willingness to completely cut ties with the caller.

Blocking Individuals on Facebook Messenger

This method is the most comprehensive and prevents all forms of communication.

On Mobile (iOS & Android)

1. Open the Messenger App: Locate and launch the Facebook Messenger application on your smartphone or tablet.
2. Find the Conversation: Search for the person you want to block. You can either scroll through your list of recent conversations or use the search bar at the top.
3. Tap on Their Name: Once you find the conversation, tap on the person’s name at the top of the chat screen. This will bring up their profile information.
4. Scroll and Find “Block”: Scroll down the profile page until you see the “Block” option. Depending on your device and app version, it might be slightly different, but it’s usually clearly labeled.
5. Choose to Block: You’ll typically see two options: “Block Messages and Calls” and “Block on Facebook.” Choosing the first option, “Block Messages and Calls,” will prevent them from contacting you through Messenger. Choosing the second option will block them on the entire Facebook platform. Select the Messenger option for call blocking specifically.
6. Confirm Your Decision: Facebook will usually prompt you with a confirmation message to ensure you want to block the person. Confirm your choice.

On Desktop

1. Open Facebook in a Browser: Navigate to Facebook.com in your preferred web browser.
2. Go to Messenger: Click on the Messenger icon (the speech bubble with a lightning bolt) in the top right corner of the screen.
3. Find the Conversation: Search for the person you want to block, or find their conversation in your recent chats.
4. Open the Conversation: Click on the conversation to open it.
5. Click the Gear Icon (Settings): Look for the gear icon (usually near the person’s name at the top of the chat window). This represents settings and options.
6. Select “Block”: In the dropdown menu, you should find a “Block” option. Click on it.
7. Choose to Block: Similar to the mobile app, you’ll have the option to “Block Messages and Calls” or “Block on Facebook.” Select the appropriate option.
8. Confirm Your Decision: Confirm your choice in the pop-up window.

Muting Calls on Facebook Messenger

If you don’t want to completely block someone but need a break from their calls, muting is your answer. This will silence notifications for their calls without blocking other interactions.

On Mobile (iOS & Android)

1. Open Messenger and Find the Conversation: Same as blocking, start by locating the person’s conversation.
2. Tap on Their Name: Access their profile by tapping their name at the top.
3. Find the Mute Notifications Option: Scroll down until you see “Mute Notifications.”
4. Choose to Mute Calls: You’ll see options to mute messages, calls, or all notifications. Select “Mute Calls.”
5. Set a Duration: You’ll be prompted to select how long you want to mute calls for, such as 15 minutes, 1 hour, until you turn it back on, or a custom time.

On Desktop

Muting calls specifically (separate from messages) isn’t directly available on the desktop version of Messenger. You can mute the entire conversation, which will silence call notifications along with message notifications, using similar steps to the mobile method.

Disabling Facebook Messenger Call Notifications

If the issue is simply the annoyance of the notifications themselves, you can adjust your Messenger settings to minimize interruptions. This won’t block calls, but it will prevent your phone from buzzing every time someone tries to reach you.

On Mobile (iOS & Android)

1. Open the Messenger App: Launch the Messenger application.
2. Tap Your Profile Picture: Tap on your profile picture in the top left corner of the screen.
3. Select “Notifications & Sounds”: Scroll down and tap on “Notifications & Sounds.”
4. Customize Notifications: Here, you can customize various notification settings. You can disable sound and vibration for calls, adjust the notification preview, and even set “Do Not Disturb” mode for specific periods.

On Desktop

1. Open Facebook in a Browser: Go to Facebook.com.
2. Go to Messenger: Click the Messenger icon.
3. Click the Three Dots: Click the three dots (ellipsis) above your list of conversations.
4. Select “Settings”: Click on “Settings” in the dropdown menu.
5. Notifications: Navigate to the “Notifications” section.
6. Customize Notifications: Here, you can adjust various notification settings, including turning off specific types of notifications. Look for options related to calls or sounds and customize as needed.

FAQs: Your Facebook Call Blocking Questions Answered

1. What happens when I block someone on Facebook Messenger?

When you block someone on Messenger, they can no longer send you messages, see your online status, or call you. From their perspective, it will appear as though your messages are not being delivered.

2. Will the person know I blocked them?

Facebook is intentionally vague about notifications for blocking. The person won’t receive a direct notification that they’ve been blocked. However, they may realize it if they try to contact you and can’t.

3. Can I block calls from someone who isn’t my friend on Facebook?

Yes! The blocking process is the same, regardless of whether the person is a friend or not. You can block anyone who can contact you through Messenger.

4. Can I unblock someone I’ve previously blocked?

Absolutely. To unblock someone, go to your Facebook settings (on desktop or mobile), navigate to the “Blocking” section, find the person in the list, and click “Unblock” next to their name.

5. Does blocking someone on Messenger block them on Facebook as well?

Not necessarily. When you block someone, you usually have the option to block them only on Messenger (preventing messages and calls) or on the entire Facebook platform (preventing all interaction). Choose the option that suits your needs.

6. What’s the difference between muting and blocking?

Muting silences notifications from a person, but they can still contact you, and you can still see their messages or missed calls. Blocking prevents all communication between you and that person on the specified platform (Messenger or Facebook).

7. Can I block calls from a specific group chat?

Yes, you can mute the group chat entirely, which will silence all notifications, including call notifications. Alternatively, you can leave the group.

8. Is there a way to block all incoming calls on Facebook Messenger?

Unfortunately, there is no built-in feature to globally block all incoming calls on Messenger. You would need to block individuals separately or disable all Messenger notifications entirely (which also affects message notifications).

9. I blocked someone, but they can still call me. What should I do?

Ensure you selected the “Block Messages and Calls” option, not just “Block on Facebook”. If the issue persists, try clearing your Messenger app’s cache and data (on mobile) or logging out and back into Facebook (on desktop).

10. Can I report someone who is harassing me through Facebook calls?

Yes. If you are experiencing harassment, you should report the person to Facebook. You can do this by going to their profile and selecting the “Report” option.

11. How do I manage my blocked list on Facebook?

You can manage your blocked list in your Facebook settings. Navigate to the “Blocking” section to view, unblock, or add more people to your list.

12. Can I block calls on the Messenger Lite app?

Yes, the process for blocking calls on the Messenger Lite app is similar to the standard Messenger app. Find the person’s conversation, access their profile, and choose the “Block” option.

By following these steps and keeping these FAQs in mind, you can confidently manage your Facebook Messenger experience and enjoy a more peaceful and controlled online interaction. Take back your time and say goodbye to those unwanted interruptions!