How to Block Unwanted Phone Calls on Your Landline (100% Free)
Unwanted phone calls have become a major nuisance for landline owners. From telemarketing calls to robocalls, scam calls, and even prank calls, these unwanted interruptions can disrupt our daily lives and invade our privacy. Blocking these calls is crucial for maintaining peace of mind and safeguarding against potential scams or fraud.
Fortunately, there are several methods available to block unwanted calls on your landline. One quick and easy solution is to dial *60 on your landline phone to stop unwanted calls from a specific number. However, this is just one of the many ways you can protect yourself from these annoying and potentially harmful calls.
In this post, we will explore the various types of unwanted calls and provide a comprehensive guide on how to effectively block them using built-in phone features, services offered by your phone provider, third-party call blocking devices, and registering on the National Do Not Call Registry. By the end of this post, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to take control of your landline and enjoy a more peaceful, interruption-free life.
>> Read The 15 Best Cheapest Landline Phone Service Providers
Understanding the Types of Unwanted Calls
Before diving into the solutions for blocking unwanted calls, it’s essential to understand the different types of calls you may encounter on your landline. By recognizing these calls, you can better assess which blocking methods will be most effective for your situation.
A. Telemarketing calls
Telemarketing calls are unsolicited calls from businesses trying to sell you products or services. These calls can be persistent and often come from unfamiliar numbers. While some telemarketing calls are legitimate, many are scams or unwanted solicitations.
B. Robocalls
Robocalls are automated phone calls that deliver a pre-recorded message. These calls are often used for political campaigns, charity solicitations, or scams. Robocalls can be incredibly frustrating, as they are impersonal and frequently occur in large volumes.
C. Scam calls
Scam calls are fraudulent attempts to obtain personal information or money from unsuspecting individuals. Scammers may pose as representatives from government agencies, banks, or well-known companies to trick you into revealing sensitive data or sending money. These calls can be particularly dangerous, as falling victim to a scam can lead to identity theft or financial loss.
D. Prank calls
Prank calls are non-serious, often malicious calls intended to annoy, frighten, or harass the recipient. These calls can come from known or unknown numbers and may involve silly jokes, threats, or silence on the other end of the line. While prank calls are generally less harmful than scam calls, they can still be disruptive and unsettling.
By familiarizing yourself with these different types of unwanted calls, you’ll be better prepared to choose the most appropriate blocking methods for your needs. In the following sections, we’ll explore various solutions to help you safeguard your landline from these unwanted interruptions.
Using Built-in Phone Features
Many modern landline phones come equipped with built-in features designed to help you manage unwanted calls. These features can be easily activated and customized to suit your preferences, making them a convenient first line of defense against unwanted calls.
A. Anonymous call rejection
Anonymous call rejection is a feature that automatically blocks calls from numbers that have withheld their caller ID information. When activated, callers who have blocked their number will hear a message stating that you are not accepting anonymous calls, and they will need to unblock their number to reach you. To enable anonymous call rejection, dial *77 on your landline phone. To disable the feature, dial *87.
B. Call blocking for specific numbers
As mentioned earlier, you can block unwanted calls from specific numbers by dialing *60 on your landline phone. After dialing *60, follow the voice prompts to add the number you wish to block. This feature is particularly useful if you are receiving persistent unwanted calls from a particular number. To remove a number from your call blocking list, dial *60 and follow the prompts to manage your blocked numbers.
C. Do Not Disturb mode
Do Not Disturb (DND) mode is a feature that allows you to silence all incoming calls temporarily. When DND mode is active, calls will be sent directly to voicemail without ringing your phone. This feature is helpful when you need uninterrupted time, such as during meetings or while sleeping. To activate DND mode, dial *78 on your landline phone. To deactivate the feature, dial *79.
By utilizing these built-in phone features, you can significantly reduce the number of unwanted calls you receive on your landline. However, for more comprehensive call blocking solutions, you may need to explore additional options, such as contacting your phone service provider or using third-party call blocking devices, which we will discuss in the following sections.
>> Read AARP Landline Phone Service For Seniors
Contacting Your Phone Service Provider
If the built-in phone features are not sufficient for managing unwanted calls, your next step should be to contact your phone service provider. Many providers offer call blocking services that can help you reduce the number of unwanted calls you receive on your landline.
A. Inquire about call blocking services
Contact your phone service provider and ask about the call blocking services they offer. Some common services include:
1. Nomorobo: A service that automatically blocks known robocall numbers.
2. Call Guardian: A service that screens and filters unwanted calls based on your preferences.
3. Custom call blocking: A service that allows you to create a custom list of numbers to block.
B. Activation and setup process
Once you have selected a call blocking service, your phone service provider will guide you through the activation and setup process. This may involve adding the service to your existing phone plan and configuring your preferences, such as choosing which types of calls to block or creating a custom block list.
C. Potential costs associated with the service
Some call blocking services offered by phone service providers may come with additional costs. Be sure to inquire about any fees associated with the service before signing up. In some cases, the added cost may be worth the peace of mind and reduced frustration of dealing with unwanted calls.
It is important to note that while phone service provider call blocking services can be effective, they may not catch all unwanted calls. Additionally, some providers may not offer call blocking services, or the available services may not meet your specific needs. In such cases, you may need to consider using third-party call blocking devices, which we will discuss in the next section.
Third-party Call Blocking Devices
If your phone service provider doesn’t offer call blocking services or if you’re looking for a more comprehensive solution, third-party call blocking devices may be the answer. These devices work independently of your phone service provider and can offer a higher level of customization and control over your call blocking preferences.
A. Standalone call blocking devices
Standalone call blocking devices are hardware units that connect to your landline phone and act as a filter for incoming calls. Some popular standalone call blocking devices include:
1. CPR Call Blocker: A device that allows you to block unwanted calls by pressing a button when you receive a call from an unwanted number.
2. Sentry Call Blocker: A device that uses a built-in database of known robocall and scam numbers to automatically block unwanted calls.
3. Digitone Call Blocker Plus: A device that allows you to create custom block lists and select from various call blocking modes.
B. How they work
Third-party call blocking devices typically work by screening incoming calls against a database of known unwanted numbers or by allowing you to create custom block lists. When a call comes in, the device compares the caller’s number to the blocked numbers list. If there is a match, the call is automatically blocked, and the caller may hear a message indicating that their call is not accepted.
C. Pros and cons of using these devices
Pros:
1. Higher level of customization and control over call blocking preferences.
2. Independent of phone service providers, so they can be used with any landline service.
3. Can be more effective at blocking unwanted calls than phone service provider solutions.
Cons:
1. Requires an upfront investment in the device.
2. May require some technical know-how to set up and configure.
3. Some devices may have limited blocking capacity or require manual updates to the blocked numbers list.
While third-party call blocking devices can be an effective solution for managing unwanted calls on your landline, it’s important to research and compare different devices to find the one that best suits your needs and budget.
Registering on the National Do Not Call Registry
One of the most effective ways to reduce the number of unwanted telemarketing calls you receive on your landline is by registering your number on the National Do Not Call Registry. This registry is a free service provided by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) that helps consumers limit the number of telemarketing calls they receive.
A. What is the National Do Not Call Registry?
The National Do Not Call Registry is a database maintained by the FTC that contains the phone numbers of consumers who have opted out of receiving telemarketing calls. Telemarketers are required by law to consult this registry and refrain from calling numbers that are listed.
B. How to register your landline number
To register your landline number on the National Do Not Call Registry, follow these simple steps:
1. Visit the official website at www.donotcall.gov or call the toll-free number 1–888–382–1222 from the landline number you wish to register.
2. Provide your landline number and email address (optional) for confirmation.
3. Complete the registration process by verifying your email address, if provided.
Once your number is registered, telemarketers have 31 days to remove your number from their call lists. Your registration will remain active indefinitely unless you choose to remove your number from the registry.
C. Exceptions to the registry
It’s important to note that registering on the National Do Not Call Registry will not stop all unwanted calls. Some organizations are exempt from the registry, including:
1. Charities
2. Political organizations
3. Surveyors
4. Companies with which you have an existing business relationship
Additionally, the registry only applies to telemarketing calls, so you may still receive calls from scammers, robocallers, and other sources. However, registering on the National Do Not Call Registry is still an important step in reducing the overall number of unwanted calls you receive on your landline.
Handling Unwanted Calls That Get Through
Despite your best efforts to block unwanted calls using the methods discussed above, some unwanted calls may still get through to your landline. When this happens, it’s important to know how to handle these calls effectively to minimize their impact on your time and well-being.
A. Avoid engaging with the caller
If you answer a call and realize it’s an unwanted telemarketer, robocall, or scammer, avoid engaging with the caller. Don’t press any buttons or speak to the caller, as this may indicate that your number is active and lead to more unwanted calls in the future.
B. Hang up immediately
As soon as you identify an unwanted call, hang up the phone. Don’t feel obligated to listen to the caller’s pitch or engage in conversation. Remember, you are not obligated to speak with anyone who calls you unsolicited.
C. Report persistent unwanted calls to the FTC
If you continue to receive unwanted calls despite being registered on the National Do Not Call Registry or using other call blocking methods, you can report these calls to the FTC. To file a complaint:
1. Visit the FTC’s complaint website at www.ftc.gov
2. Select the option for “Unwanted Telemarketing, Text, or SPAM”
3. Follow the prompts to provide details about the unwanted call, including the date, time, and number of the caller
4. Submit your complaint
By reporting persistent unwanted calls, you help the FTC identify and take action against companies that violate telemarketing laws and regulations.
Remember, handling unwanted calls that get through requires a combination of patience, assertiveness, and proactive reporting. By staying vigilant and using the tools and techniques discussed in this blog post, you can significantly reduce the impact of unwanted calls on your landline and enjoy a more peaceful, interruption-free life.
FAQs
How do I block unwanted calls on my landline?
There are several ways to block unwanted calls on your landline. One of the easiest methods is to register your numbers on the National Do Not Call list, which you can do at no cost by calling 1–888–382–1222 (voice) or 1–866–290–4236 (TTY). You can also use built-in phone features like anonymous call rejection, call blocking for specific numbers, and Do Not Disturb mode. If these options aren’t sufficient, consider contacting your phone service provider to inquire about call blocking services they offer. Additionally, third-party call blocking devices that connect to your landline phone can provide a more comprehensive solution.
Does *61 block unwanted calls?
Yes, *61 is a code that blocks unwanted calls as part of some providers’ free Call Blocking service. When you dial *61, you can follow the voice prompts to add numbers you wish to block to your call blocking list.
What does *77 do on a landline?
Dialing *77 on your landline activates the Anonymous Call Rejection feature, which stops calls from people that use a blocking feature to keep their name or number from being displayed. When this feature is enabled, callers who have blocked their number will hear a message stating that you are not accepting anonymous calls, and they will need to unblock their number to reach you.
How do I block unwanted mobile calls?
To block unwanted mobile calls, start by registering your mobile number on the National Do Not Call Registry. You can also use your mobile phone’s built-in call blocking features, which vary depending on your device and operating system. Many smartphones allow you to block specific numbers or enable a “Do Not Disturb” mode that silences calls from unknown numbers. Another option is to download a call blocking app from your device’s app store, which can provide additional features and customization options. Finally, don’t hesitate to contact your mobile service provider to inquire about call blocking services they offer.
Can I block all calls from an area code?
Many phones offer a feature called “neighborhood filtering” that allows you to block calls from specific area codes. However, it’s important to note that adding a neighborhood filter can silence legitimate calls from the area code and prefix you’ve blocked, unless the specific numbers are saved in your phone’s contact list. This means that you may inadvertently block calls from friends, family, or important contacts who happen to have a number with the blocked area code. If you choose to use this feature, be sure to review your block list regularly and add any necessary exceptions to your contacts.
How do I stop calling someone?
If you want to stop calling a specific person, the simplest solution is to remove their number from your phone’s contact list and avoid dialing their number. If you’re receiving unwanted calls from someone, you can block their number using your phone’s built-in call blocking features or by contacting your service provider. It’s important to be assertive and not engage with the caller, as this may only encourage them to continue contacting you.
What should I do if I receive an unwanted call?
If you receive an unwanted call, the best course of action is to avoid engaging with the caller and hang up immediately. Don’t press any buttons or speak to the caller, as this may indicate that your number is active and lead to more unwanted calls in the future. If you continue to receive persistent unwanted calls despite being registered on the National Do Not Call Registry or using other call blocking methods, you can report these calls to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) by visiting their complaint website at www.ftc.gov.
Are there any downsides to using call blocking services or devices?
While call blocking services and devices can be effective in reducing unwanted calls, there are a few potential downsides to consider. Some call blocking services offered by phone providers may come with additional costs, so be sure to inquire about any fees before signing up. Third-party call blocking devices may require an upfront investment and some technical know-how to set up and configure. Additionally, certain call blocking methods may inadvertently block legitimate calls, so it’s important to review your settings and block lists regularly to ensure you’re not missing important calls from friends, family, or colleagues.
