Blocking unwanted calls and texts can help reduce interruptions, protect your privacy, and avoid harassment or scams. While the specific steps depend on your phone and service provider, it is generally quick and easy to block a number.
What does “141” mean when blocking a number?
The 141 code is used by some service providers when blocking caller ID information. When you dial 141 before a phone number you are calling, your number will show up as “private” or “anonymous” to the recipient. However, blocking your caller ID does not prevent the call from going through.
To actually block a number from calling or texting you, you will need to use your phone’s call blocking features, not dial 141. The specifics vary between Android and iPhone, as well as different carriers, but the general process is:
On Android:
- Open the Phone app and go to Recents
- Tap the number you want to block
- Tap Block number
On iPhone:
- Go to Settings > Phone
- Tap Call Blocking & Identification
- Tap Block Contact and add the number you want to block
You can also block numbers directly from Recents or your Contacts. Once blocked, the number will no longer be able to call or text you.
What happens when you block a number?
When you block a number:
- The blocked number’s calls will go directly to voicemail or a busy signal.
- Text messages from the blocked number will not come through.
- Your phone will not ring or vibrate for calls or texts from the blocked number.
- The blocked number will have no indication that you blocked them.
So blocking a number prevents any interruption or nuisance from that number trying to contact you. It’s an easy and effective way to stop unwanted communication.
Can a blocked number still leave voicemail?
Whether a blocked number can leave a voicemail or not depends on your carrier and phone settings:
| Carrier | Voicemail from blocked number? |
|---|---|
| AT&T | No |
| Verizon | No |
| T-Mobile | No |
| Sprint | Yes |
Some Android phones also have an option under Call Blocking settings to allow voicemails from blocked numbers. So if blocking voicemails is important to you, check your carrier and phone settings.
Does blocking a number notify them?
No, blocking a number does not notify the blocked person in any way. When you block someone, it looks like your phone is turned off or out of service to the blocked number.
They will not know you purposefully blocked them, as opposed to your phone being off or having bad reception. Blocking happens silently on your end only.
Can you unblock a number?
Yes, blocking a number is reversible if you change your mind later. The process to unblock a number is similar to blocking:
On Android:
- Open Phone app > Recents
- Tap the blocked number
- Tap Unblock
On iPhone:
- Go to Settings > Phone > Call Blocking & Identification
- Tap the info icon next to the blocked number
- Tap Unblock this Caller
Once unblocked, the number will be able to call and text you normally again.
Conclusion
Blocking a phone number is quick, easy and reversible if needed. It prevents calls and texts from unwanted numbers. While dialing 141 blocks your caller ID, it does not block calls or texts to your phone. To stop nuisance communications, use your device’s call blocking features. Overall, blocking provides effective protection against interruptions and harassment from undesired callers.
