How to block unknown numbers from calling you in WhatsApp?

How to block unknown numbers from calling you in WhatsApp - briefly?

To block unknown numbers from calling you on WhatsApp, open the app and go to your phone's settings. Under "Account," select "Privacy" and then choose "Calls." Here, you can set your call privacy to "Nobody," which will prevent any unknown numbers from reaching you.

How to block unknown numbers from calling you in WhatsApp - in detail?

Blocking unknown numbers from calling you on WhatsApp is a crucial step towards maintaining your privacy and avoiding unwanted interruptions. Here's a detailed guide on how to achieve this:

Understanding the Problem

Unwanted calls from unknown numbers can be intrusive and annoying, disrupting your daily routine and potentially posing security risks. WhatsApp, while primarily a messaging app, also supports voice and video calls, making it important to know how to block these unwanted contacts effectively.

Steps to Block Unknown Numbers in WhatsApp

  1. Identify the Unknown Number:

    • When you receive a call from an unknown number, WhatsApp will display the caller's phone number. Take note of this number as it will be needed for blocking.
  2. Block the Number on Your Device:

    • Open your device’s settings and navigate to the “Call Blocking” or “Spam Filter” section (the exact path may vary depending on your device).
    • Add the unknown number to the blocked list. This will prevent calls from this number across all apps, including WhatsApp.
  3. Block the Number in WhatsApp:

    • Open WhatsApp and go to the “Calls” tab.
    • Find the recent call from the unknown number. Tap on it to open the call details.
    • At the top of the screen, you will see options like “Message,” “Mute,” and “Block.” Tap on “Block.”
    • Confirm that you want to block this contact. Once blocked, WhatsApp will prevent any future calls or messages from this number.
  4. Use WhatsApp's Settings for Additional Control:

    • Open WhatsApp and go to “Settings” (usually represented by three dots in the top-right corner).
    • Navigate to “Account,” then “Privacy.”
    • Here, you can manage who can call you. For example, you can set it so that only your contacts can call you, effectively blocking all unknown numbers.

Additional Tips

  1. Keep WhatsApp Updated:

    • Ensure your WhatsApp app is always up-to-date. Updates often include improvements to privacy and security features, which can help in better managing unwanted calls.
  2. Report Spam:

    • If the unknown number is clearly a spam or scam attempt, you can report it directly to WhatsApp by going to the call details and selecting “Report.” This helps WhatsApp take action against such numbers.
  3. Use Third-Party Apps (Optional):

    • There are third-party apps available that specialize in blocking spam calls and messages. These can be integrated with your device settings to provide an additional layer of protection.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can effectively block unknown numbers from calling you on WhatsApp. This not only enhances your privacy but also helps reduce the risk of falling victim to potential scams or frauds. Stay vigilant and take advantage of all the features WhatsApp offers to maintain a secure communication environment.