Blocking Unwanted Calls: Your Comprehensive Guide to Blocking a Phone Number on Verizon

So, you’re being hounded by persistent calls from an unknown number, or maybe you just want to sever contact with someone completely. Fear not, because blocking a number on Verizon is a straightforward process. Let’s cut to the chase: you can block a phone number on Verizon through multiple avenues: My Verizon website or app, or by using Verizon’s call filtering apps. Each method offers slightly different functionalities and levels of control. This guide will walk you through each one.

Blocking Numbers Directly Through My Verizon

Perhaps the most comprehensive way to manage blocked numbers is directly through your Verizon account. Whether you prefer the web interface or the convenience of the mobile app, Verizon puts the power in your hands.

Blocking via the My Verizon Website

Here’s how to block a number using the My Verizon website:

1. Log in to your My Verizon account: Using your Verizon credentials, access your account through a web browser at verizon.com.
2. Navigate to the “Block Numbers” section: Hover over “Account” at the top of the page, and then click “Privacy Settings”.
3. Add the number to your Block List: Under “Blocked Numbers”, you’ll see an option to add numbers to your block list. Enter the phone number you wish to block in the provided field.
4. Confirm the Block: Click the “Block” button to add the number to your blocked list. You should receive a confirmation message.

This method ensures the number is blocked across all devices associated with your Verizon account. You can add or remove numbers from this list at any time.

Blocking via the My Verizon App

For those who prefer using their smartphones, the My Verizon app offers the same functionality:

1. Open the My Verizon App: Launch the My Verizon app on your smartphone or tablet.
2. Navigate to Account Settings: Look for the menu icon (usually three horizontal lines) and tap it. Then, navigate to the “Account” section and find “Privacy Settings”.
3. Access the Block List: Scroll down until you find the “Blocked Numbers” option.
4. Add a Number: Tap the “+” or “Add Number” icon. Enter the phone number you want to block and tap “Block”.

The app provides a mobile-friendly interface, allowing you to quickly manage your blocked number list on the go.

Leveraging Verizon’s Call Filtering Apps

Verizon provides additional tools to help you manage unwanted calls and texts, beyond simply blocking specific numbers. These apps offer features like spam detection and call screening.

Verizon Call Filter (Free Version)

The basic Verizon Call Filter app is free for Verizon customers and offers several features:

• Spam Detection: Identifies potential spam calls and flags them.
• Spam Filter: Automatically filters identified spam calls, sending them directly to voicemail.
• Robocall Blocking: Offers the option to block robocalls altogether.
• Number Blocking: Allows you to manually block specific numbers.

To use the manual number blocking function:

1. Download and install the Verizon Call Filter App: Find it in your app store.
2. Set up the app: Follow the on-screen instructions to configure the app with your Verizon account.
3. Navigate to the Block List: Within the app, look for the “Block List” or “Blocked Numbers” section.
4. Add the Number: Tap the “+” or “Add Number” icon and enter the number you wish to block.

Verizon Call Filter Plus (Subscription)

Verizon Call Filter Plus is a subscription-based service that builds on the free version, offering enhanced features:

• Caller ID: Provides detailed caller ID information, even for numbers not in your contacts.
• Spam Risk Meter: Shows the level of spam risk associated with incoming calls.
• Personalized Spam List: Allows you to customize your spam filters based on your specific preferences.
• Reverse Number Lookup: Enables you to identify unknown numbers.

The blocking functionality works similarly to the free version, but the additional features provide greater control and insight into incoming calls.

Important Considerations

• Blocked numbers cannot contact you: Once a number is blocked, calls and text messages from that number will not reach your phone. They will typically be routed directly to voicemail (if applicable) or simply dropped.
• Effect on others on the same account: Blocking a number through My Verizon generally affects all lines on the account. Be mindful of other users on your plan.
• Temporary vs. Permanent: Blocking is not necessarily permanent. You can easily remove a number from your block list if you change your mind.
• App Permissions: Call filtering apps require certain permissions to access your call logs and contacts. Review these permissions carefully before granting them.
• Privacy: Be aware of Verizon’s privacy policy regarding call filtering and blocking. Your data is subject to their terms and conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 12 frequently asked questions to give you additional helpful information to understand call blocking:

1. What happens when someone I’ve blocked tries to call me?

When a blocked number attempts to call you, the call will typically be routed directly to your voicemail (if you have voicemail set up) or simply terminated. Your phone will not ring, and you won’t receive a notification of the call. The caller may hear a message indicating that your phone is not accepting calls, or they may just hear ringing without an answer.

2. Will the person I blocked know that I blocked their number?

Generally, no. The blocked party typically won’t receive a specific notification indicating they’ve been blocked. They might suspect it if their calls consistently go straight to voicemail or are never answered, but there’s no explicit message confirming the block.

3. Can I block a number that is not in my contacts?

Absolutely. Whether the number is in your contacts or not, you can block it using any of the methods described above – through My Verizon, or using the Verizon Call Filter app. You simply need to enter the phone number you wish to block.

4. How many numbers can I block on Verizon?

Verizon typically allows you to block a substantial number of phone numbers. While there might be a soft limit, it’s generally high enough that most users won’t encounter it. Check your specific account details or contact Verizon support for precise limitations.

5. If I block a number on my phone, does it block it on other devices linked to my Verizon account?

Yes, blocking a number through your My Verizon account (either on the website or in the app) will block the number across all devices linked to that account. This is because the blocking is done at the account level, not the individual device level.

6. Can I block text messages from a specific number?

Yes, blocking a number also blocks text messages from that number. Once a number is on your block list, you will no longer receive text messages from it.

7. Is there a charge for blocking a phone number on Verizon?

Blocking a phone number directly through My Verizon is free of charge. However, Verizon Call Filter Plus is a subscription-based service, so there is a monthly fee for that enhanced functionality. The basic Verizon Call Filter app is free.

8. How do I unblock a number on Verizon?

Unblocking a number is just as easy as blocking it. Go back to the same section in My Verizon (website or app) or the Verizon Call Filter app where you blocked the number, find the number on your block list, and select the “Unblock” or “Remove” option.

9. Will blocking a number stop them from leaving me voicemails?

It depends. In most cases, the calls from blocked number will go directly to voicemail, meaning that they can still leave a voicemail message if they wish. However, you can typically configure your voicemail settings to not accept messages from blocked numbers.

10. Does Verizon offer any other services to help with spam calls?

Yes, in addition to blocking specific numbers and using the Call Filter app, Verizon also employs network-level spam detection and filtering to automatically block or flag suspicious calls before they even reach your phone. This helps reduce the overall volume of unwanted calls.

11. What if I’m still getting calls from a blocked number?

This is rare, but it can happen. Sometimes, spammers use techniques like spoofing to disguise their numbers. If you’re still receiving calls from a number you’ve blocked, ensure that the number is correctly entered on your block list and consider reporting the ongoing calls to Verizon.

12. Can I block a number that is calling from a different country?

Yes, you can block international numbers just like domestic numbers. Simply enter the full international phone number, including the country code, in the blocking feature. However, keep in mind that spammers may use different numbers from different countries, so blocking one may not stop all unwanted calls from overseas.

By understanding these various methods and considering the FAQs, you’re well-equipped to manage unwanted calls and reclaim your peace of mind on the Verizon network. Don’t let those pesky callers get you down! Take control of your communication today.