How to Use a Phone Handset to Unblock Incoming Blocked Numbers

Don't be bothered by anonymous calls.

If someone calls you and doesn't want you to see her phone number, it will show up on your handset as a private or "blocked" call. If you don't want to receive anonymous calls, phone companies provide a service that rejects calls to your phone from people who have blocked their numbers. If you sign up for anonymous-call rejection, people who have blocked their numbers will hear a recorded message stating that you do not accept private or restricted calls. The only way people will be able to call you is to unblock their number so it shows on your handset or caller ID.

Instructions

1. Call your phone company and tell them you'd like to order anonymous call rejection. There will be a monthly charge for the service, but if you have caller ID, you should be able to get anonymous-call rejection free.

2. Wait for the service to be activated. Different phone companies have different time lines, but your service could be activated in a few hours after you place the order.

3. Dial *77 on your handset to turn the feature on.

Tips & Warnings

• To turn the service off, dial *87. This doesn't cancel the service -- you'll still be paying a monthly fee -- it just turns the service off temporarily to allow you to receive restricted calls.

• If you're receiving harassing or annoyance calls, call your phone company and ask to speak with the annoyance-call center; they can trace the calls free.

References

• Rutgers University: Phone Features and Their Star Codes