Blocking a phone number is an effective way to stop unwanted calls, texts, and messages from a person. Whether it’s from an ex, a family member, or simply an annoying caller, blocking numbers can help you maintain your peace of mind. But what happens when you block a number? Will the other person know? This comprehensive guide will explain the details of blocking a number on both Android and iPhone, as well as address some frequently asked questions.
What Happens When You Block a Number?
When you block a number, the person on the other end will no longer be able to reach you through regular phone calls, SMS, or MMS messages. However, certain things happen based on your device and carrier:
Calls:
The blocked number will be automatically declined, meaning you won’t receive any calls. Some networks may send the call directly to voicemail, but you won’t be notified of new voicemails. Interestingly, even though you’ve blocked them, you can still call the blocked contact.
Text Messages:
Blocked contacts won’t be able to send you text messages. Their messages may appear to have been sent from their side, but you won’t receive them. If you send a message to a blocked number, they won’t be able to respond.
Other Messaging and Calling Apps:
On Android devices, blocking a number only impacts regular calls and SMS messages. The blocked number can still reach you on apps like WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook Messenger, etc., unless you block them on those platforms too.
On iPhones, blocking a contact will prevent them from calling or texting you via standard methods, including FaceTime and iMessage. However, they can still contact you on other apps unless you block them separately on those apps.
Will the Blocked Person Know?
The short answer is no; the blocked person will not be notified. When they try to call you, they will hear a message like “the number is busy” or “out of service.” Their text messages will show as “sent,” but you will not receive them.
Although there are no direct notifications, after several attempts to reach you, the blocked contact might start suspecting that something is wrong. But they will not receive any official notification that they have been blocked.
What Happens When the Blocked Person Calls You?
When the blocked person tries to call you, the behavior may vary depending on the carrier. Some carriers might send them a message stating that the call cannot be completed, while others may simply disconnect the call after one ring. However, they will not be informed directly that they are blocked.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does Blocking a Number Delete It From Your Contacts?
No. Blocking a number will not delete it from your contacts. If you decide to unblock the number later, it will still be available in your contact list.
2. How to Block a Number?
Android: Open the Phone app, tap on the contact, and select “Block Number.” iPhone: Open the contact or the caller’s number and tap on “Block this Caller.”
3. How to Unblock a Number?
Android: Go to the Phone app > Settings > Blocked Numbers > tap the X next to the contact. iPhone: Go to Settings > Phone > Blocked Contacts, tap “Edit,” and remove the number.
4. What Happens After Unblocking a Number?
Once you unblock a number, the contact can call and message you again. However, you won’t receive any messages sent while they were blocked, and no call history will appear from the time they were blocked.
5. What Are Other Ways to Stop Receiving Calls Without Blocking?
If you don’t want to completely block someone, you can mute their calls or messages. Both Android and iPhone allow you to mute specific contacts without fully blocking them.
Conclusion:
Blocking a number is a useful tool to protect your privacy and maintain boundaries, especially if you are dealing with unwanted calls or messages. While blocking stops calls and texts, it doesn’t affect other messaging apps unless you block the contact there as well. Also, the blocked person won’t be notified, giving you peace of mind when taking control over your communications.
If you don’t want to go as far as blocking, muting a contact is an option, giving you flexibility in how you manage your communication without completely cutting ties. Always consider your needs before taking such steps.