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# How to block spam calls and messages on Android
- URL: https://chale.tech/block-spam-calls-android/
- Published: 2026-10-21T13:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-21T13:00:00.000Z
- Description: Tired of loan sharks, “promo” calls and scam numbers? Block numbers in your phone app, filter unknown callers, and use MTN’s free Do Not Disturb service to stop unwanted SMS.
- Author: Isaac Nana Yaw Annor
- Tags: How-To, Phones

Spam calls and texts are a daily irritation in Ghana: fake promos, loan apps chasing debts that are not yours, “you have won” texts and outright scams. You cannot stop them all, but you can cut most of them out.

## Block a number (Google Phone app)

Many Android phones, including Pixel and newer Tecno, Infinix and other models, use Google’s Phone app. Google’s steps:

1. Open the **Phone** app and tap **Recents**.
2. Tap the call from the number you want to block.
3. Tap **Block / report spam** and confirm.

Blocked numbers are declined automatically. Google’s Phone app also lets you manage the list in Settings → Blocked numbers, where you can block unknown callers (private or hidden numbers).

## Samsung and other phone apps

Most phone apps work the same way: open the recent call, tap the menu or the info (i) icon, and choose **Block**. Look in the Phone app’s settings for “Block numbers” and options like “Block unknown/private numbers”.

## Turn on caller ID and spam protection

Google’s Phone app has a caller ID and spam setting that warns you about suspected spam calls and can filter them. Look in Phone → Settings → Caller ID & spam. Other phone apps have similar options.

## Block spam SMS

- **In Messages:** open the conversation, tap the menu, and choose Block or Report spam.
- **MTN Do Not Disturb (free):** to stop SMS from a sender, text **Block** and the sender’s name or short code to **1309** (for example “Block 1444”). To allow them again, text **Allow** and the name to 1309\. Text **Check** to 1309 to see your blocked list.

## Do not engage

- Do not call back missed calls from strange international numbers: some are designed to charge you.
- Do not press numbers during robocalls or reply “STOP” to obvious scam texts; it confirms your number is active.
- Never share codes, PINs or personal details with callers. See [how to spot a mobile money scam](https://chale.tech/how-to-spot-a-mobile-money-scam/).

**Being harassed by a loan app?** Keep screenshots and report it to the Cyber Security Authority (292, WhatsApp 0501603111, report@csa.gov.gh) and to the police.

*This guide was checked in October 2026\. Menus and services change, so if something looks different on your phone, check with your provider.*

## Common questions

### Will a blocked number know I blocked them?

No. Your phone simply declines their calls. They are not told.

### How do I stop promotional SMS on MTN?

Use MTN’s free Do Not Disturb service: text “Block” followed by the sender’s name or short code to 1309, for example “Block 1444”.

### Can I block all unknown numbers?

Many phones let you block unknown or private numbers in the Phone app’s blocked numbers settings. Be careful: you could miss genuine calls from delivery riders or hospitals.

### Should I report scam numbers?

Yes. Report them to your network and, for fraud, to the Cyber Security Authority on 292.

## Sources

- [Phone app Help: Block or unblock a phone number](https://support.google.com/phoneapp/answer/6325463?hl=en&ref=chale.tech)
- [MTN Ghana help centre: Do Not Disturb (block unwanted SMS)](https://help-center.mtn.com.gh/hc/en-us/articles/4407551326482?ref=chale.tech)