How to Block All Incoming Calls Except Contacts (iPhone & Android)

Introduction

Unwanted calls can be disruptive, whether they’re from telemarketers, spam numbers, or strangers. Fortunately, both iPhone and Android devices offer built‑in features to block calls from unknown numbers while allowing only your saved contacts to reach you. For users who want even more control, third‑party apps provide advanced whitelist options.

In this guide, we’ll explore all the methods to block incoming calls except contacts, including their benefits, limitations, and step‑by‑step instructions.

Blocking Calls on iPhone

1. Use Do Not Disturb / Focus Mode

Apple’s Do Not Disturb (part of Focus Mode since iOS 15) lets you filter calls so only selected contacts can reach you.

Steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Focus > Do Not Disturb.
3. Tap People.
4. Under Allow Calls From, choose All Contacts or Favorites.

Benefit: Only trusted contacts can call you. ⚠️ Limitation: You may miss calls from unsaved but important numbers (e.g., emergency services).

Learn more from Apple’s official Focus Mode guide.

2. Silence Unknown Callers (iOS 13+)

Apple introduced Silence Unknown Callers to automatically send calls from numbers not in your contacts, recent calls, or Siri suggestions straight to voicemail.

Steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Scroll down and tap Phone.
3. Enable Silence Unknown Callers.

Benefit: Blocks spam and unknown numbers. ⚠️ Limitation: Some unsaved but recently contacted numbers may still ring.

See details on Apple’s support page.

Blocking Calls on Android

1. Do Not Disturb Mode (Samsung Example)

Most Android devices include Do Not Disturb settings that allow only calls from contacts.

Steps (Samsung):

1. Go to Settings.
2. Tap Notifications.
3. Select Do Not Disturb > People > Calls.
4. Choose Contacts only.

Benefit: Simple and effective. ⚠️ Limitation: May silence app notifications and texts.

Reference: Google’s official Do Not Disturb guide.

2. Block Unknown Callers (Samsung Example)

Samsung devices allow blocking unknown callers directly in the Phone app.

Steps:

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Tap the three‑dot menu.
3. Select Settings > Block numbers.
4. Enable Block unknown callers.

Benefit: Stops all calls from numbers not saved in contacts. ⚠️ Limitation: Spoofed or masked numbers may bypass this filter.

3. Use a Third‑Party App (Whitelist Mode)

For advanced control, apps like TheTruthSpy Parental Control offer a Call Whitelist Mode, allowing only approved numbers to ring.

Steps:

1. Install TheTruthSpy Parental Control.
2. Create an account and pair devices.
3. Go to Call & SMS Monitoring > Mode.
4. Enable Whitelist Mode and add allowed contacts.

Benefit: Maximum control with SMS monitoring and alerts. ⚠️ Limitation: Requires a subscription after a free trial.

Conclusion

Blocking all incoming calls except contacts is possible with built‑in iPhone and Android features like Do Not Disturb and Silence Unknown Callers. For stricter control, third‑party apps provide whitelist options. Choose the method that best suits your needs to enjoy a quieter, more focused phone experience.

FAQs About Blocking Calls

• Can I block everyone except contacts on iPhone? Yes. Use Focus > Do Not Disturb > People and allow calls only from contacts.
• How do I block a phone number on Android? Open the Phone app > Settings > Block Numbers, then enable Block unknown callers.
• Will blocking unknown callers affect emergency calls? No, but ensure you allow exceptions for emergency numbers in Do Not Disturb settings.
• Can I use a call blocker app to allow only contacts? Yes, if the app supports a whitelist feature.
• How do I unblock a number later? On Android: Call Settings > Blocked Numbers. On iPhone: Settings > Phone > Blocked Contacts, then swipe to delete.