How to Easily Block Unknown Numbers and Spam Messages on WhatsApp: A Step-by-Step Guide
WhatsApp has become one of the most widely used instant messaging platforms across the world, connecting billions of users with friends, family members, colleagues, and business contacts. While the app offers convenience, speed, and end-to-end encryption, it also comes with a common challenge faced by many users—unwanted messages, spam texts, and calls from unknown numbers. These unsolicited communications can be annoying, intrusive, and sometimes even dangerous, especially when linked to scams or fraudulent activities.
To address this issue, WhatsApp provides built-in privacy tools that allow users to block unknown numbers and manage spam effectively. By using these features correctly, users can regain control over their inbox, protect their privacy, and enjoy a safer messaging experience. In this article, we explain the simplest and most effective ways to block unknown contacts and spam on WhatsApp.
Why Blocking Unknown Numbers on WhatsApp Is Important
Spam messages and calls are no longer limited to emails or SMS. Messaging apps like WhatsApp are increasingly targeted by scammers who attempt phishing, fake offers, or identity theft. Receiving repeated calls or messages from unknown numbers can disrupt your daily routine and compromise your personal information.
Blocking such contacts ensures:
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Better privacy protection
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Reduced exposure to scams and spam
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Improved control over who can contact you
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A clutter-free chat and call experience
WhatsApp also offers features like silencing unknown callers, which further enhances user safety and call management.
WhatsApp Features That Help Manage Spam and Unknown Contacts
WhatsApp allows users to:
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Block specific numbers directly from chat
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Block contacts through privacy settings
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Silence calls from unknown numbers
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Prevent blocked users from sending messages or viewing profile updates
These tools are designed to give users full control over their communication without requiring any third-party apps.
Method 1: Block an Unknown Number Directly From the Chat
This is the quickest way to block someone who has already sent you a message.
Steps to follow:
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Open WhatsApp on your smartphone.
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Go to the chat window of the unknown number you want to block.
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Tap on the three-dot menu located in the top-right corner.
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Select the “More” option from the menu.
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Tap on “Block”.
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Confirm your choice by tapping “Block” again.
Once blocked, the contact will no longer be able to send you messages, call you, or view your profile photo, status updates, or last seen.
Method 2: Block a Number Through WhatsApp Privacy Settings
If you want to block a number manually—even before it messages you—this method is ideal.
Steps to follow:
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Open WhatsApp on your phone.
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Tap on Settings.
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Go to Privacy.
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Select Blocked Contacts.
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Tap on Add (or the plus icon).
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Search for the number you want to block.
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Tap on the contact and confirm by selecting “Block”.
This method is useful when you already know a number is spam or want to prevent future contact proactively.
Additional Tip: Silence Calls From Unknown Numbers
WhatsApp also offers a feature called “Silence Unknown Callers”, which automatically silences calls from numbers not saved in your contacts. These calls won’t ring on your phone but will still appear in your call log for review.
This feature is especially helpful for users who receive frequent spam calls.
Final Thoughts
Unwanted messages and spam calls can significantly affect your WhatsApp experience, but with the platform’s built-in blocking and privacy tools, managing them is simple and effective. Whether you choose to block a number directly from a chat or through privacy settings, WhatsApp ensures that you stay in control of your communication.
By taking a few minutes to customize your privacy options, you can enjoy a safer, cleaner, and more peaceful messaging experience. If you frequently receive messages or calls from unknown numbers, it’s highly recommended to use these features to protect your personal space on WhatsApp.
