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How to Block a Phone Number with Verizon: Your Comprehensive Guide

Tired of unwanted calls and texts disrupting your peace? Blocking a phone number is a powerful tool for regaining control of your communication. With Verizon, the process is straightforward, offering multiple methods to silence those persistent annoyances.

Blocking a Number: The Quick & Dirty

Here’s the straight scoop on blocking a phone number with Verizon: you have several options:

My Verizon App: The easiest and most convenient method. Simply open the app, navigate to the “Block Numbers” feature (usually under “Account” or “Settings”), and enter the number you wish to block.
Verizon Website: Log in to your My Verizon account on a computer. Look for the “Block Services” section, where you can add numbers to your blocked list.
Short Codes: Dial *67 before dialing the number you want to block your number temporarily for that specific call. However, this will not block any caller number from calling your line.
Spam Filter Apps: Use Verizon call filter application that is available on the app store. You will need to activate this feature.
Third-party Apps: There are many third-party applications that can be used to block spam, but many of them require a subscription.

Diving Deeper: Understanding Your Blocking Options

While the basic process is simple, understanding the nuances of Verizon’s blocking features is crucial. Let’s break down each method and its specifics.

Method 1: Blocking with the My Verizon App

The My Verizon app is your mobile command center. It offers the most user-friendly experience for managing your account and blocking numbers.

Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Open the My Verizon App on your smartphone.
2. Log in to your Verizon account.
3. Navigate to the “Account” section (usually found at the bottom).
4. Look for “Block Services” or “Block Numbers”. The exact wording may vary slightly depending on the app version.
5. Tap on “Block Numbers”.
6. Enter the phone number you want to block in the designated field.
7. Confirm your selection and tap “Block”.
8. Optional: You may be able to block all unknown or restricted numbers through this menu as well.
Key Advantages:
- Convenient and accessible from anywhere.
- Real-time blocking, effective immediately.
- Manage your blocked list easily.

Method 2: Blocking via the Verizon Website

For those who prefer using a computer, the Verizon website provides a similar experience.

Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Go to the Verizon website (Verizon.com) in your web browser.
2. Click on “My Verizon” and log in to your account.
3. Navigate to the “Account” section.
4. Find “Block Services” or a similarly worded option related to blocking.
5. Select “Block Numbers”.
6. Enter the phone number you wish to block and click “Block”.
7. Review your blocked list and confirm your changes.
Key Advantages:
- Larger screen for easier navigation.
- Ideal for managing multiple blocked numbers.
- Comprehensive account management features.

Method 3: Using Third-Party Apps and Devices

The app stores are full of options for filtering and blocking calls.

Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Visit your phone app store.
2. Search for an application to block your number.
3. Download the application to your phone.
4. You must setup a new account or use your google/apple account to log into the new application.
5. Use the application to block specific number.
Key Advantages:
- Convenient and accessible from anywhere.
- Some apps offer additional features such as detecting robocalls.

Method 4: Verizon Call Filter

Verizon Call Filter helps you identify and filter spam calls.

Key Advantages:
- Spam Detection: Automatically identifies and labels potential spam calls.
- Spam Blocking: You can choose to automatically block calls identified as spam.
- Call Filtering: Allows you to filter calls from unknown numbers or specific categories.
- Personal Block List: You can add specific numbers to your personal block list.
- Visual Voicemail: Enhanced visual voicemail features.
How to use Verizon Call Filter:
1. Download the Verizon Call Filter app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
2. Open the app and follow the on-screen instructions to activate the service.
3. Customize your settings to enable spam detection and blocking.
4. Add numbers to your personal block list as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Let’s tackle some common questions about blocking numbers with Verizon.

FAQ 1: How many numbers can I block with Verizon?

Verizon typically allows you to block a significant number of contacts – often up to 100 numbers per line. However, it’s always a good idea to confirm the specific limit with Verizon customer service or by checking your account details online.

FAQ 2: Will the blocked number know that I blocked them?

No, the blocked number will not receive a notification that they have been blocked. When they attempt to call you, they will usually hear a message indicating that your phone is unavailable or that the call cannot be completed. They will not know for certain that you blocked them.

FAQ 3: Can I unblock a number I previously blocked?

Absolutely! Both the My Verizon app and the website allow you to easily manage your blocked list. Simply navigate to the “Blocked Numbers” section, find the number you want to unblock, and remove it from the list.

FAQ 4: Does blocking a number prevent text messages as well?

Yes, blocking a number through Verizon’s blocking features typically prevents both calls and text messages from that number. You will no longer receive any communication from the blocked contact.

FAQ 5: Is there a charge for blocking numbers with Verizon?

The standard blocking features offered through the My Verizon app and website are usually free of charge. However, premium services like Verizon Call Filter (which offer advanced spam detection and blocking) may have a subscription fee.

FAQ 6: What’s the difference between blocking a number and sending it to voicemail?

Blocking completely prevents the number from reaching your phone, and they won’t be able to leave a voicemail. Sending a number to voicemail simply diverts their calls directly to your voicemail without your phone ringing. You will still receive their voicemails.

FAQ 7: Can I block a number that is calling from a “private” or “unknown” number?

While you cannot block a specific “private” number (since the number is hidden), you can often configure your phone or Verizon account to block all calls from numbers that are blocked or restricted from displaying their caller ID. However, be aware that this may also block legitimate calls from people who intentionally hide their numbers.

FAQ 8: What is Verizon Call Filter and how does it help with unwanted calls?

Verizon Call Filter is a service (sometimes requiring a subscription) that provides enhanced spam detection and blocking capabilities. It uses advanced algorithms to identify and filter out potential spam calls, giving you more control over who can reach you.

FAQ 9: How do I report a spam number to Verizon?

While you can block the number, there’s no formal mechanism to “report” it to Verizon directly for investigation. However, you can report spam calls to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which helps them track and combat illegal robocalling activities.

FAQ 10: Does blocking a number on my phone block it on other devices connected to my Verizon account?

No. When you add a number to the block list through the My Verizon app or website, the blocking is generally applied at the line level, meaning it only affects the specific phone number associated with that line. It will not automatically block the number on other devices connected to your Verizon account.

FAQ 11: Can I block international numbers with Verizon?

Yes, the blocking features work for both domestic and international numbers. Simply enter the international number (including the country code) into the blocking tool.

FAQ 12: If I change my phone number, will my blocked list be transferred?

Unfortunately, no. When you change your phone number, your blocked list is typically not transferred automatically. You will need to manually re-enter the numbers you want to block on your new phone number.