6 ways to block “restricted calls”

Are unknown, private, or restricted calls getting on your nerves?

We understand.

You’ve likely tapped on that unknown number already, hoping to find a “block” option—only to realize it’s not there.

But we have good news for you.

Blocking restricted calls is possible—it’s just slightly more complicated.

In this article, we’ll show you a few ways to accomplish it.

NOTE:

• Some methods may not work with your device.
• Also, no method is bulletproof—some might be too lenient, others too restrictive.
• We recommend trying different approaches and combining multiple methods.

Now, let’s examine each method step by step.

What is a restricted call?

A restricted call, also known as a private call, is a connection where the caller conceals their number. This means their caller ID is hidden from the recipient and often from the network provider as well. It’s a practice commonly used by scammers to mask their identity.

1. Block or silence restricted calls in your “phone” app

For most Android devices, you can block private calls within the dialer app.

iPhone users can opt to silence unknown callers instead.

While similar to blocking, silencing sends calls to voicemail without ringing your phone.

Such calls will still appear in your call logs, giving you a chance to call back if necessary.

Be aware that using these features means you won’t receive any “unknown” or “private” calls, whether spam or legitimate.

Android typically allows you to choose between blocking “private” or “unknown” numbers, offering more control.

How to silence unknown callers on an iPhone:

1. Go to the settings.
2. Scroll down and tap “phone.”
3. Scroll down and tap “silence unknown callers.”
4. Toggle “silence unknown callers” on.

How to block restricted calls on Android:

Consider these instructions a rough guide. Each phone brand may have different feature names and menu locations or may not offer such an option at all.

1. Open the dialer app.
2. Access the app menu (typically indicated by three vertical dots in the upper-right corner of the screen).
3. Search for an option labeled “settings,” “blocked,” or something similar.
4. Locate “block rules” or a similar setting.
5. Turn on the feature to block “unknown,” “private,” or “withheld” numbers (exact terminology can differ by manufacturer).

One more note—

You can’t block a specific restricted call.

That’s because these types of calls conceal the caller ID, preventing your phone from identifying the number to block.

In other words, your phone doesn’t even know what number to block.

Therefore, blocking private or unknown numbers is an all-or-nothing approach.

If your phone lacks this feature, explore methods 2 and 3—you might find similar outcomes through different means.

2. Avoid unwanted calls with spam filters

Some dialer apps feature a function to filter spam and suspicious callers.

This slightly differs from blocking—it uses databases of reported numbers to weed out malicious callers while allowing legitimate ones.

If you’re using Google’s “phone” app, activate spam filters by navigating to “settings,” then “caller ID & spam,” and enable the options there.

Keep in mind that not all apps offer this feature.

3. Block restricted numbers with the “do not disturb” option

Here’s an alternative method to silence unknown and restricted callers.

If your phone doesn’t support blocking or filtering such calls directly, there’s a workaround.

How?

Activate “do not disturb” mode and adjust the settings to allow only contacts in your address book to call you.

How to set up the “do not disturb” option in an iPhone:

1. Open settings.
2. Scroll down and tap “focus.”
3. Tap “do not disturb.”
4. Tap “people.”
5. Tap “allow calls from.”
6. Select “contacts only.”

You can also schedule the hours when “do not disturb” should be active.

But there’s a catch—

“Do not disturb” is meant to minimize phone distractions, meaning it disables all notifications.

Activating it will block unknown and restricted callers and quiet all other alerts.

Keep this in mind.

How to set up the “do not disturb” option on an Android device:

Each Android device may have a slightly different path and customization options for the “do not disturb” feature. 

Quick control panel:

1. Swipe down from the top of your screen—a quick control panel should open.
2. Look for and tap the “do not disturb” option—you may have to unwind the menu further.
3. Tap and hold the “do not disturb” icon to access settings.
4. Once in the settings, look for options to customize who can call you and allow only your contacts.

Settings:

1. Go to your phone’s settings.
2. If you have the search option at the top of the screen, type “do not disturb” and tap the autofill result.
3. If you don’t have the search option, scroll down and look for the “do not disturb” option in either the “notifications” or “sounds” settings.
4. If neither option works, look for other productivity settings. 
5. Once you access the “do not disturb” screen, look for options to customize who can call you and set them such that only your contacts can call you.

Now—

The “do not disturb” feature is a total solution—it blocks unwanted calls and all notifications.

But—

Some devices may give you more customization options than others.

If you can see “apps,” “notifications,” or similar settings in the “do not disturb” screen, tap it and set what type of notifications you want to allow when this feature is toggled on.

If you set it right—block notifications only from unknown callers but clear the way for other notifications—you can keep this feature on all the time. 

However, if you have limited customization options, the “do not disturb” option may prove a bit impractical in daily use.

What’s left, then?

See below.

4. Block restricted calls with third-party apps

If the above methods don’t suit you, consider trying dedicated apps.

There are many options on the market, both for iOS and Android.

Just visit your app store and search “block private calls” or “spam blocker”—plenty of choices should appear.

But here’s the thing—

These apps cost you your privacy.

While they effectively block spam calls, they often do so at the expense of your private data.

Many of these apps collect more data points than necessary to perform their functions, and some even share your information with third parties.

With this in mind, here are some of the more popular options:

iOS:

• Robokiller
• Hiya
• YouMail Spam Block & Voicemail

Android:

• Eyecon Caller ID & Spam Block
• Robokiller
• Hiya

Important: Downloading third-party apps can pose privacy risks. These apps often require permissions for your contacts, messages, call history, and even audio access. 

5. Block restricted calls with your network provider

Several network providers have come up with their own solutions to help you dodge unwanted calls.

Check if your mobile service provider has one.

It’s worth exploring their offerings, particularly if you’re cautious about sharing data with third-party companies.

Below are some options from popular mobile carriers:

• T-Mobile
• AT&T
• Verizon
• Mint Mobile

6. Sign up to the Do Not Call Registry

Not all telemarketers are scammers.

Some of them do operate legitimately.

And if they’re not abusive, spam-blocking apps may not flag them and allow their calls.

That’s a weak spot.

On top of that, you may want to rely on something other than third-party apps.

If that’s your case, consider adding your number to the National Do Not Call Registry.

By signing up, you prevent legitimate telemarketers from reaching out with offers.

This service is entirely free and managed by the Federal Trade Commission.

Joining won’t cause any harm and might reduce those pesky unknown calls.

Register here.

Blocking is not enough

Blocking a restricted phone call helps.

But how about removing your number from private callers’ databases?

They can’t call you if they don’t have your number, right?

Here’s how it works.

Hundreds of companies specialize in scraping personal information from the web to trade it.

This includes your phone number and more—including your name, address, family members, house value, employment and criminal history, sexual orientation, and beyond.

However—

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