what is call blocking?

A short description of call blocking

Call blocking, also known as call filtering or call rejection, allows a telephone subscriber to block incoming calls from specific telephone numbers. This feature may require an additional payment to the subscriber’s telephone company or a third party.

Call blocking is desired by people who want to block unwanted phone calls. These are typically the types of unsolicited calls from telemarketers and robocalls.

Call blocking on smartphones

There are a multitude of third-party call blocking apps available for smartphones, while some manufacturers offer built-in call blocking features as standard.

Call blocking on landlines

Unwanted calls to landlines can be blocked by several methods. Some landline phones have built-in call blocking. External call blockers are sold as telephone accessories that plug into existing phones.

Call blockers and related services have recently received attention in 2016 from publications such as Which? and Consumer Reports in the UK and US, respectively. These devices and services allow the user to block an ongoing call or alternatively block the number after the call. These devices rely on caller ID information and, therefore, a phone blocker requires an active caller ID service on the line for blocking to work.