How to Block Outgoing Calls on Android Devices

Blocking outgoing calls on Android devices can be a practical solution for parents managing their children’s phone usage, businesses ensuring controlled communication, or individuals aiming to prevent accidental calls. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the methods available to restrict outgoing calls on Android devices, from built-in settings to third-party apps and enterprise solutions.

Why Block Outgoing Calls?

Blocking outgoing calls can be beneficial in several scenarios:

1. Parental Control: To prevent children from making unauthorized calls.
2. Cost Management: To avoid accidental calls or overspending on calls, especially international ones.
3. Enterprise Use: Businesses can ensure employees use devices only for approved communications.
4. Security: Prevent misuse of a device by unauthorized users.

Methods to Block Outgoing Calls on Android

1. Use Built-in Features

Most Android devices come with native options to restrict outgoing calls. These features are typically found under Call Settings or Parental Controls.

Steps:

1. Open the Phone app and go to the Settings menu (often represented by a gear icon).
2. Look for options like Call Barring or Call Restriction.
3. Enable Call Barring for outgoing calls and set a password (usually provided by your carrier).
4. Save the settings, and outgoing calls will be restricted.

Note: The exact steps may vary depending on the Android version and device manufacturer.

2. Enable Parental Controls

Google Family Link allows you to set up restrictions on your child’s device, including limiting outgoing calls.

Steps:

1. Download Google Family Link on both the parent and child devices.
2. Link the devices and set up a supervised account for the child.
3. Under the child’s account settings, manage phone usage and set restrictions for calls.

3. Use Third-Party Apps

Numerous third-party apps are designed to block outgoing calls with advanced features. Some popular ones include:

• Call Blocker - Blacklist: Allows blocking specific numbers or outgoing calls entirely.
• Kids Place: A parental control app that includes outgoing call restrictions.
• Norton Family: Provides comprehensive parental controls, including call management.

Steps to Use Third-Party Apps:

1. Install the app from the Google Play Store.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up call restrictions.
3. Configure the app to block outgoing calls based on your preferences.

4. Carrier-Level Restrictions

Mobile carriers often provide services to block outgoing calls. Contact your carrier to enable call barring or specific restrictions on your account.

Steps:

1. Call your carrier’s customer service.
2. Request call barring for outgoing calls.
3. Provide any necessary details, such as your account PIN or verification information.
4. Follow their instructions to activate the feature.

5. Use Android Device Management Tools

For businesses or advanced users, Mobile Device Management (MDM) tools like Microsoft Intune or VMware Workspace ONE can be used to restrict outgoing calls.

Steps:

1. Set up an MDM solution and enroll the Android devices.
2. Configure policies to block outgoing calls.
3. Deploy the policies to the devices in your organization.

Blocking Specific Outgoing Numbers

If you don’t want to block all outgoing calls but restrict specific numbers (e.g., international calls):

1. Go to Call Settings on your device.
2. Navigate to Fixed Dialing Numbers (FDN).
3. Enable FDN and specify the allowed numbers. Calls to other numbers will be blocked.
4. Save the settings and provide the PIN if required.

Blocking outgoing calls on Android devices is straightforward with the right tools and methods. Whether you use built-in features, parental control apps, or carrier services, you can ensure control over device usage effectively. Choose the method that aligns with your needs and preferences to manage outgoing calls securely and efficiently.