What Is Call Blocking?
Call blocking prevents specific phone numbers from reaching you. The blocked caller hears a message or gets sent to voicemail.
Block a Specific Number on iPhone
Open Phone app > Recents > tap the "i" next to the number > scroll down > "Block this Caller." Or go to Settings > Phone > Blocked Contacts > Add New.
Block a Specific Number on Android
Open Phone app > Recents > long-press the number > "Block number." The exact wording varies by manufacturer.
Block All Unknown Callers
iPhone: Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers. Android: Phone app > Settings > Blocked numbers > Block unknown callers.
What the Blocked Caller Hears
Varies by carrier and settings. iPhone sends to voicemail after one ring. Japanese carriers play different guidance messages.
Carrier Anti-Spam Services
NTT Docomo, au, and SoftBank offer paid services (220-330 yen/month) that automatically identify and block known spam numbers using databases.