People experiencing gender-based violence may receive threats or harassment via technology. Depending on their situations, survivors may decide that it is safe and helpful to block an account or user. Here’s how to block someone’s phone number.

This video uses an iPhone, but the steps are very similar on other phones.

Step 1

To block a phone number, first open your “phone” app.

1. Next, look at the options on the bottom of your screen and choose “favourites”, “recents”, or “voicemail.”
2.  Look for a blue circle with an “i” in it, which will be next to the number or contact you want to block. Tap this blue circle.
3. This will open up a new menu, where you can scroll down and choose “block caller”
4.  You can also block a contact by opening your contacts. Choose the contact you want to block, and then scroll down until you find “block this caller.”

Step 2

To manage your contacts, open your phone’s settings.

1. Choose “phone,” and then open “blocked contacts.”
2. From here, tap edit, and make the changes you want.

Step 3

If you want to send unknown callers straight to voicemail, open your settings and go to “phone,” and choose “silence unknown callers.”

If you’re using an iPhone, you may also want to block this contact on facetime or social media accounts like Facebook and Instagram.

When you block a phone number, calls and messages won’t be sent or received. But, you still might get voicemails from this user- it just won’t notify you that you’ve received a voicemail. The person you block will not be notified that they were blocked. If you block someone on social media, you won’t be able to see their posts. You may also lose access to conversations in private and direct messages, and any comments or posts they’ve made on your page. You may want to preserve evidence before changing your settings.

Before making changes to your password settings, think through potential safety risks. Consider if your device is being monitored by an abuser and whether violence will escalate if you make changes. If you have the option, consider using a different device or connect with an anti-violence worker who can help you come up with a safety plan.

It’s possible to use technology safely. You don’t have to give up your devices or online presence if tech-facilitated violence is happening to you. It is not your fault. You are not alone. Visit BCSTH.ca to find a safe confidential support service in your community.