• Aug 22, 2022

Tech Talk with Jeff - Blocking Unwanted Calls and Text Messages Part 2

In a continuation of the topic from last month, there is another easy way to stop being bothered by phone calls and text messages from scammers and spammers. There are lots of upsides to making these changes, but as with anything, there are also a few downsides.

This option takes advantage of your address book. Basically, if the person trying to reach you is not in your address book, the call or text will be hidden. A voicemail can still be received, and the call will still show up as a call that came into your phone, but you will not hear it ring.

Blocking Phone Calls

iPhone

1. Open "Settings"
2. Scroll down to "Phone" and tap it
3. Look for "Silence Unknown Callers" and tap it
4. Tap the slider to the right to turn the feature on

Android

There are several variations of Android powered phones with different methods to use this feature. A quick internet search will provide the correct instructions for your phone if the feature is available.

Blocking Text Messages

iPhone

1. Open "Settings"
2. Scroll down to "Messages" and tap it
3. Look for "Filter Unknown Senders"
4. Tap the slider to the right to turn the feature on

 Android

There are several variations of Android powered phones with different methods to use this feature. A quick internet search will provide the correct instructions for your phone if the feature is available

By using these options you will no longer be disturbed by calls or text messages from numbers that are not in your address book. The downside of this setup means if you give your number to someone new and they try to call you or text you, you will not see it come in until you add them as a contact in your address book. It's great protection, but at a price .

Be aware and be safe!