How to Block and Filter Calls from Unknown Numbers in WhatsApp App

WhatsApp has become one of the most popular messaging apps, allowing users to easily communicate with friends, family, and even businesses. However, with the app’s widespread use, many users have experienced an increase in calls from unknown or spam numbers. Thankfully, WhatsApp provides features to block and filter these unwanted calls.

Why Blocking Unknown Calls is Important

Here are some key reasons why blocking unknown callers can be beneficial:

  • Prevents disruptions: Getting frequent calls from unknown numbers can be disruptive, distracting and annoying. Blocking these calls helps avoid these disruptions.
  • Increases privacy: By blocking calls from those you don’t know, you increase control over who can contact you and gain more privacy.
  • Reduces risk of scams: Many unknown callers are spammers or scammers trying to get personal information or money. Blocking them reduces this risk.
  • Saves time: Sorting through calls from unknown numbers takes time. By blocking them, you save yourself wasted time and hassle.

How to Block Unknown Calls on Android

Blocking unwanted calls from strangers on Android takes just a few taps:

1. Open WhatsApp Settings

Open WhatsApp and tap the three-dot menu icon in the top right corner. Then tap Settings.

2. Select Privacy

Scroll down and tap on Privacy.

3. Choose Call Settings

Under Privacy, select Calls.

4. Turn On “Silence Unknown Callers”

Turn on the switch next to Silence Unknown Callers.

That’s it! Now calls from any number not in your contacts will be automatically silenced.

How to Block Unknown Calls on iPhone

The process is very similar on iPhones:

1. Open WhatsApp Settings

Open WhatsApp and tap the Settings icon on the bottom right.

2. Choose Privacy

Scroll down and select Privacy.

3. Tap on Calls

Under Privacy, tap on Calls.

4. Enable “Silence Unknown Callers”

Turn on the switch for Silence Unknown Callers.

After following these steps, calls from unknown contacts will be silenced automatically.

Customizing Your Call Blocking Further

WhatsApp provides additional customization options for blocking calls:

  • Block specific contacts: You can block calls and messages from specific contacts under Privacy > Blocked contacts > Add New.
  • See call details: While silenced, details on calls from unknown numbers will still show under Calls tab > Missed calls.
  • Allow calls from saved contacts: The Silence Unknown Callers setting will not block calls from numbers saved in your phone’s contacts.
  • Disable call blocking: You can disable call blocking at any time by simply turning off Silence Unknown Callers under Settings > Privacy > Calls.

Using Third-Party Apps for Blocking

If WhatsApp’s built-in settings don’t meet your needs for blocking unwanted calls, third-party apps provide additional filtering options:

  • Mr. Number: Popular Android app allowing you to block calls based on region, spam probability and more.
  • Truecaller: Identifies unknown callers and blocks spam risks for Android and iOS.
  • WhosCall: iOS call blocker with spam detection and ability to create custom block lists.
  • Hiya: Android and iOS app using crowdsourced caller ID to detect nuisance calls.

Be sure to research any third-party apps thoroughly, as some may raise privacy concerns or require paid subscriptions for full functionality.

Maintaining Your Privacy

In addition to blocking calls, WhatsApp has other privacy settings to review:

  • Profile Photo visibility
  • Read receipts for messages
  • Groups permissions
  • Last seen and online presence
  • Two-step verification

Setting these appropriately for your preferences ensures you maintain control over your privacy within WhatsApp.

Conclusion

Receiving frequent spam calls and disturbances from unknown numbers can be frustrating. Thankfully, WhatsApp provides customizable settings to block and filter these unwanted calls.

By enabling Silence Unknown Callers and leveraging additional privacy controls, you can focus on meaningful conversations on WhatsApp while maintaining your peace of mind. Reviewing your settings periodically makes sure you have optimal control.

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Based on the search results, here is a question about them:

According to the search results, what is the key benefit of using WhatsApp’s “Silence Unknown Callers” feature?

The key benefit is that it prevents disruptions by automatically silencing calls from any number not saved in your phone’s contacts. As stated in search result[1], “With this feature turned on, WhatsApp will automatically screen all the calls you receive from any numbers you aren’t familiar with. So the app won’t ring for unknown numbers.” Result[6] also mentions that “When enabled, the feature silences all signs of incoming calls from unknown numbers including both sound and visual alerts in the app.” So by automatically silencing these unknown calls, it helps avoid disruptions from numbers you don’t recognize.