How To Block a Number on Landline

Unwanted phone calls can be more than just a nuisance. Whether it is persistent sales calls, scam attempts or repeated wrong numbers, receiving disruptive calls on your landline can quickly become stressful. Thankfully, there are several ways to block numbers on a landline in the UK, depending on the phone provider, handset and type of call.

This article explains how to block a number on a landline, what services are available from major UK providers, and how to prevent nuisance calls more broadly. It also covers handset features, the difference between call barring and call blocking, and what to do if blocking does not work.

Call Blocking vs Call Barring

Before diving into methods, it is useful to understand the difference between call blocking and call barring. Call blocking prevents specific numbers or types of calls from reaching you. This could be a single number, anonymous calls or international numbers. Call barring, on the other hand, is usually used to restrict outgoing calls, such as premium-rate or international numbers, to control costs.

For unwanted incoming calls, call blocking is what you need. The approach will depend on whether you are using a built-in service from your provider, a handset with blocking features or a separate call blocking device.

How to Block a Number Using Your Phone Provider

Most major UK landline providers offer some form of call blocking service. For example, BT offers a free service called BT Call Protect, which allows you to block specific numbers, divert nuisance calls and even create personal blacklists. You can manage these settings through your BT account or by dialling specific codes from your landline.

Sky and TalkTalk offer similar services, either free or included in certain call packages. These services often let you block withheld numbers, international calls or add specific numbers to a block list. You usually activate them through your account dashboard or by contacting customer support.

Virgin Media offers Anonymous Caller Rejection and Call Barring, although these services may incur an additional charge. It is best to check with your provider to see what call blocking features are included in your package and how they can be activated.

How to Block Numbers Using Your Landline Handset

Many modern landline phones come with built-in call blocking features. Brands such as BT, Panasonic, and Gigaset offer phones with a dedicated "Call Block" button or a menu system that allows you to add numbers to a blocked list. Some models let you block numbers that have already called, while others let you input a number manually.

These handsets often allow you to block anonymous or international calls, and many come with a built-in spam filter that auto-blocks common nuisance numbers. Some models can store and block up to 100 numbers or more, depending on the device.

To check if your phone supports this feature, consult the instruction manual or search for the model online. If your current handset does not support call blocking, you may want to consider upgrading to one that does.

Using External Call Blocking Devices

If your handset does not have built-in blocking features and your provider does not offer a solution that works for you, a call blocking device may be the answer. These devices plug directly into your landline socket and work with your existing phone. Once set up, they can block specific numbers, withheld numbers and even numbers that start with a certain prefix.

Popular brands include CPR Call Blocker and TrueCall. These devices often include large internal databases of known nuisance numbers and can be customised to suit your needs. They are especially helpful for vulnerable users or households regularly targeted by scam calls.

Some models offer call screening, where unknown callers are asked to record their name before the call is put through. This discourages cold callers and gives you more control over who can reach you.

Blocking Withheld and International Numbers

Most nuisance calls do not come from specific phone numbers. Instead, they appear as "Number Withheld" or originate from international numbers. These types of calls can often be blocked using your provider’s service or through a call blocking device.

For example, BT Call Protect allows you to divert or block calls with no caller ID. Other providers offer similar services, although some may charge extra. Blocking these types of calls usually affects genuine international contacts as well, so consider whether this suits your household.

If Blocking Does Not Work

If you continue receiving nuisance calls despite using blocking features, it may be worth registering with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS). This free service allows you to opt out of unsolicited sales and marketing calls. Legitimate businesses are legally required to check the TPS list before calling.

Scam callers and overseas telemarketers may ignore these rules, but combining TPS registration with call blocking methods can significantly reduce unwanted contact. If a caller is harassing or threatening you, report the number to your provider or contact Action Fraud or the police if necessary.

Conclusion

You can block a number on a landline using a combination of your provider’s services, your phone handset’s features or an external call blocking device. While not every landline has built-in call control, the rise of nuisance calls has prompted both telecoms providers and handset manufacturers to offer more effective solutions.

Whether you choose to block calls directly, screen unknown numbers or use an external device, taking control of your landline helps reduce frustration, protect your household and create peace of mind.