How to Block a Person's Number on a Cell Phone

There are ways to block a number on your cell phone.

While cell phones allow instant communication and convenience, unwanted calls can be especially disruptive and bothersome. Whether calls are serious harassment or annoying telemarketing, a cell phone user has several options for blocking a person's number.

Instructions

1. Download a call-blocking application. Many smart phone platforms, such as Apple, Windows, BlackBerry and Android, offer third-party applications, for free or for a small fee. Go to the application store for your device to search for options.

2. Contact your wireless service provider. Many providers will let you manage blocking services online after registering. Options may include blocking restricted, unavailable and private numbers; blocking outgoing directory assistance calls; and blocking by name or phone number.

3. Enter your phone number in the National Do Not Call Registry. This may block up to 80 percent of telemarketing calls. Call the Federal Trade Commission at 888-382-1222 or visit DoNotCall.gov.

Tips & Warnings

• The Federal Trade Commission made automated telemarketing calls, also known as "robocalls," illegal in August 2009. Companies who continue this practice can be fined up to $16,000 per call. An exception is if a recipient provided a cell phone number on a credit application, which implies consent to auto-dialed collection calls.

References

• Verizon Wireless: Block/Unblock Numbers
• Privacy Rights Clearinghouse: End Unwanted Phone Calls
• Privacy Rights Clearinghouse: Cellular Phone Abuse

Resources

• National Do Not Call Registry: Register Now
• Federal Trade Commission: Submit a Complaint
• ILoveIndia.com: How to Block Numbers on a Cell Phone