How to Block Ringless Voicemail Calls on Your Phone

The Challenge of Blocking Ringless Voicemail

Ringless voicemail presents unique blocking challenges:

Why Ringless Voicemail Is Difficult to Block

• Messages are delivered directly to voicemail servers, bypassing your phone's call screening
• Traditional call blocking apps can't intercept server-to-server communications
• No ring or missed call means standard call blockers don't detect the activity
• Senders can easily change their originating numbers to bypass number-based blocks
• Carrier-level filtering for voicemail is less developed than for calls and texts

Carrier-Based Solutions

Your phone carrier may offer tools to help. For business communication solutions, explore our automated call API. For enterprise needs, our automated call center platform offers comprehensive functionality.

Contact Your Carrier Directly

For persistent issues, contact your carrier's customer service:

1. Request enhanced voicemail filtering options
2. Ask about premium security services that may include voicemail protection
3. Inquire about blocking specific numbers from leaving voicemails
4. Report persistent spam voicemails for carrier-level action
5. Consider a carrier-provided voicemail PIN or password to prevent unauthorized access

Third-Party Apps and Services

Several apps can help reduce unwanted voicemails. Track your messaging performance with our call statistics platform. Enhance customer interactions with our phone call auto responder technology.

Device-Specific Methods

Your phone's built-in features can help manage voicemail spam:

For iPhone Users

• Silence Unknown Callers:
  1. Go to Settings > Phone
  2. Enable "Silence Unknown Callers"
  3. Calls from numbers not in your contacts will go straight to voicemail without ringing
  4. While this doesn't block ringless voicemails, it helps manage all voicemails in one place
• Use Visual Voicemail filtering:
  1. In the Phone app, tap the Voicemail tab
  2. Look for a "Blocked Messages" or "Spam" folder
  3. Review and permanently delete unwanted messages
• Consider third-party visual voicemail apps with enhanced filtering capabilities

For Android Users

• Enable Spam Protection:
  1. Open the Phone app
  2. Tap the three dots > Settings > Spam and Call Screen (options vary by device)
  3. Enable "Filter spam calls"
• Use Google's Call Screening: (on Pixel phones)
  1. When you receive a call, tap "Screen call"
  2. Google Assistant will answer and transcribe the call
  3. You can choose to block the number from future calls
• Try third-party voicemail apps that replace your default voicemail service with better filtering

Legal Remedies and Reporting Options

Take advantage of legal protections:

• Register with the National Do Not Call Registry:
  • Visit donotcall.gov or call 1-888-382-1222
  • Registration is free and never expires
  • Legitimate businesses must honor this registration
  • Note: This won't stop all ringless voicemails, especially from scammers
• Report violations to the FCC:
  • Visit consumercomplaints.fcc.gov
  • File a complaint with details about the unwanted voicemail
  • Include the sender's number and the date/time received
• Report to the FTC:
  • Visit reportfraud.ftc.gov
  • File a complaint about unwanted calls or messages
  • Provide as much detail as possible about the sender
• Contact your state attorney general:
  • Many states have their own telemarketing regulations
  • Your state AG's office can provide guidance on state-specific protections

Preventative Measures

Reduce your chances of receiving ringless voicemails:

• Be careful where you share your phone number:
  • Use a secondary number for online forms and public listings
  • Consider services like Google Voice for non-essential contacts
  • Opt out of directory listings when possible
• Review privacy policies:
  • Before providing your number to businesses, check their data sharing practices
  • Opt out of marketing communications when signing up for services
  • Regularly review and update your communication preferences with companies
• Consider a "voicemail only" phone number:
  • Use a separate number that only accepts voicemails for non-essential contacts
  • Screen these messages on your schedule
  • Keep your primary number private for important contacts only

FAQ: Blocking Ringless Voicemail