How to Block and Report Unknown Numbers on WhatsApp: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
How to Block and Report Unknown Numbers on WhatsApp: Full Step-by-Step Guide for Safer Messaging
With millions of people using WhatsApp across the world, it is common for users to receive messages or calls from unknown numbers. While most users simply ignore them, these calls and messages can sometimes be part of a scam that may put your privacy at risk. As online fraud cases continue to rise, blocking suspicious numbers on WhatsApp has become essential for personal safety and data protection.
This detailed guide explains how you can block and report unknown contacts on WhatsApp using simple steps, along with tips to stay safe from digital scams.
Why Blocking Unknown Numbers Is Important
Spam calls, phishing messages, and fake promotional texts are becoming more frequent. Many users fall victim to online scams that begin with an unexpected WhatsApp message or a missed call.
Unknown contacts may:
-
Try to obtain personal information
-
Send harmful links
-
Attempt financial fraud
-
Use your profile details for misuse
To safeguard your privacy and prevent fraudulent activities, WhatsApp provides built-in features that allow you to block, mute, and report such contacts easily.
Step 1: Block an Unknown Number Through Chat
If you receive a message from an unknown number, you can block it directly from the chat window.
Here’s how:
-
Open the chat of the unknown number.
-
Tap the three dots in the top-right corner of the screen.
-
Select More from the menu.
-
Tap Block.
Once you do this, the number will no longer be able to call or message you on WhatsApp.
Step 2: Add a Number to the Block List
You can also block a number manually through WhatsApp settings.
Follow these steps:
-
Open WhatsApp and go to the main screen.
-
Tap the three dots at the top right corner.
-
Select Settings and then tap Privacy.
-
Scroll down to Blocked Contacts.
-
Tap the add icon in the top-right corner.
-
Choose the contact you want to block.
The selected number will be immediately added to your block list.
Step 3: Silence Calls from Unknown Numbers
To enhance user safety, WhatsApp allows you to silence calls from unknown numbers. These calls will not ring on your phone but will appear in the call log.
Steps to activate this feature:
-
Go to Settings in WhatsApp.
-
Select Privacy.
-
Tap Calls.
-
Enable the Silence Unknown Callers option.
This feature acts as a protective filter that prevents spam callers from disturbing you and reduces the misuse of your phone number.
Step 4: Report Suspicious Users
Blocking prevents contact, but reporting helps WhatsApp take action against fraudulent users.
To report someone:
-
Open the chat of the suspicious user.
-
Tap the three dots in the top-right corner.
-
Select More.
-
Tap Report.
When you report, WhatsApp receives the most recent messages from that conversation for investigation. The reported user will not be notified.
WhatsApp Scams: What You Should Watch Out For
WhatsApp scams have been increasing rapidly and often involve:
-
Fake profiles pretending to be officials or company representatives
-
Malicious links that steal personal data
-
Fraudulent OTP requests
-
International numbers posing as customer support
Scammers may attempt to trick you into sending money, sharing personal details, or clicking unsafe links.
Important safety tips:
-
Never answer calls from unfamiliar international numbers.
-
Do not click on unknown links.
-
Never share OTPs or personal information with strangers.
-
Block and report suspicious contacts immediately.
Responding to such messages or calls can lead to serious consequences, including data theft and financial fraud.
Final Thoughts
Blocking and reporting unknown numbers on WhatsApp is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect yourself from digital scams. By following these easy steps and staying alert, you can ensure your privacy remains secure and enjoy a safer messaging experience.
