How to Stop Blocked Numbers From Leaving Voicemails on Your Phone

Key takeaways:

• Blocking numbers doesn’t always prevent voicemails on most phones
• Carrier-level solutions are often the most effective for stopping voicemails
• Third-party apps can provide additional call and voicemail blocking features
• Some phone models (like Google Pixel) offer built-in voicemail blocking
• Disabling voicemail entirely is an option, but has drawbacks

In today’s digital age, unwanted calls and voicemails can be more than just a nuisance—they can be downright intrusive and sometimes even dangerous. While most smartphones offer the ability to block specific numbers, many users are surprised to find that blocked callers can still leave voicemails. This article will guide you through various methods to stop blocked numbers from leaving voicemails on your phone, ensuring your privacy and peace of mind.

Understanding the Limitations of Phone Blocking

When you block a number on your smartphone, you might expect that it prevents all forms of communication from that number. However, the reality is often different:

• Call Blocking: This typically prevents your phone from ringing when the blocked number calls.
• Text Blocking: Messages from blocked numbers are usually prevented from reaching you.
• Voicemail Access: In many cases, blocked callers can still leave voicemails.

The reason for this discrepancy lies in how call blocking works at the device level versus the network level. Your phone can reject incoming calls, but voicemail services are often managed by your carrier, allowing messages to bypass your phone’s blocking feature.

Carrier-Level Solutions

One of the most effective ways to stop blocked numbers from leaving voicemails is to work with your carrier. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Contact Your Carrier: Reach out to your mobile service provider’s customer support.
2. Inquire About Voicemail Blocking: Ask if they offer services to block voicemails from specific numbers.
3. Advanced Call Filtering: Some carriers provide advanced call filtering services that can be more effective than built-in phone blocking.

Carrier-Specific Options:

Carrier	Service	Description
Verizon	Call Filter	Identifies and blocks spam calls
AT&T	Call Protect	Blocks fraudulent calls and warns of suspected spam
T-Mobile	Scam Shield	Blocks scam calls and offers caller ID services

These services often come with a monthly fee but can provide comprehensive protection against unwanted calls and voicemails.

Phone-Specific Solutions

Different phone models and operating systems offer varying levels of control over call blocking and voicemail management.

For iPhone Users

iPhones running iOS 13 or later offer a feature called “Silence Unknown Callers”:

1. Go to Settings > Phone
2. Toggle on Silence Unknown Callers

This feature sends calls from unknown numbers directly to voicemail without ringing your phone. While it doesn’t prevent voicemails, it reduces the chances of you interacting with unwanted callers.

For Android Users

Android phones have built-in call blocking features, but their effectiveness in preventing voicemails varies by model and carrier. Google Pixel phones offer one of the most robust solutions:

1. Open the Phone app
2. Go to Settings > Spam and Call Screen
3. Enable See caller and spam ID and Filter spam calls

Pixel phones can use Google Assistant to screen calls and prevent them from going to voicemail altogether.

Third-Party Apps for Enhanced Protection

Several third-party apps offer advanced call and voicemail blocking features. Some popular options include:

• YouMail: Replaces your voicemail with a smarter version that can block unwanted voicemails.
• RoboKiller: Uses AI to identify and block spam calls before they reach your voicemail.
• Truecaller: Offers caller ID and spam blocking features.

When choosing a third-party app, consider:

• Privacy policies
• User reviews
• Compatibility with your device
• Additional features offered

Disabling Voicemail Entirely

If you’re frustrated with managing voicemails, you might consider disabling the service completely. Here’s how:

1. Contact Your Carrier: Voicemail is a carrier-provided service, so you’ll need to request deactivation from them.
2. Consider Alternatives: Before disabling, think about setting up a Google Voice number or using a third-party voicemail app as an alternative.

Pros of Disabling Voicemail:

• No more unwanted messages
• Reduced storage usage on your phone

Cons of Disabling Voicemail:

• You might miss important messages
• Some callers may be confused or unable to leave necessary information

Best Practices for Managing Unwanted Calls and Voicemails

While working on blocking voicemails from unwanted numbers, consider these additional best practices:

1. Don’t Engage: Avoid answering or returning calls from unknown numbers.
2. Use Do Not Disturb: Set up Do Not Disturb mode to allow calls only from contacts.
3. Register with Do Not Call: Add your number to the national Do Not Call registry.
4. Report Spam: Use your phone’s built-in spam reporting feature to help improve blocking algorithms.
5. Regularly Update Blocked Numbers: Keep your block list current by adding new spam numbers as they appear.

The Future of Call and Voicemail Blocking

As technology evolves, so do the methods for managing unwanted communications. Keep an eye out for:

• AI-Powered Screening: More sophisticated AI that can engage with callers to determine legitimacy.
• Network-Level Blocking: Carriers implementing more robust blocking at the network level.
• Integration with Smart Assistants: Voice assistants like Siri or Google Assistant taking a more active role in call management.

Conclusion

Stopping blocked numbers from leaving voicemails requires a multi-faceted approach. While no single solution is perfect, combining methods like carrier services, phone settings, and third-party apps can significantly reduce unwanted voicemails. Remember to stay vigilant and adapt your strategies as new technologies and solutions become available.

By taking control of your phone’s call and voicemail management, you can create a more peaceful and secure communication environment. Whether you choose to work with your carrier, leverage your phone’s built-in features, or explore third-party options, the power to manage your communications is in your hands.

FAQ

What’s the difference between blocking a number and silencing unknown callers?

Blocking a number typically prevents calls and texts from that specific number, while silencing unknown callers sends all calls from numbers not in your contacts to voicemail without ringing your phone.

Can blocked numbers see that they’ve been blocked?

Generally, no. When a number is blocked, the caller usually hears a normal ring and is sent to voicemail, giving no indication that they’ve been blocked.

Will disabling voicemail affect my ability to receive important messages?

Yes, disabling voicemail means you won’t receive any voice messages, including potentially important ones. Consider alternatives like Google Voice if you want to maintain some voicemail functionality.

Are third-party call blocking apps safe to use?

Most reputable call blocking apps are safe, but it’s important to research their privacy policies and user reviews before installing. Always download apps from official app stores.

Can I block voicemails from unknown numbers but allow them from contacts?

Some carrier services and third-party apps offer this level of customization. Check with your specific carrier or app provider for this feature.