How to Block Spam Calls on a Landline or Home Phone
To block spam calls on a home phone, start with the service on your bill. A traditional landline can use a carrier’s call-blocking feature or a compatible handset or blocker. For a home phone bundled with broadband, start with the provider’s voice portal and choose how to handle suspected spam.
Pick the right blocker for your line
- One repeat caller: block the number on your handset or in your provider account.
- Many calls from changing numbers: try provider spam filtering or a blocker that screens callers.
- Important calls from unfamiliar numbers: start with warnings or voicemail and check what gets diverted.
Traditional landline or internet home phone?
A corded handset can work with either type of service. Check your bill or ask the provider whether the line is traditional or internet-based before you buy a blocker or dial a code.
| Type of home phone | Start here |
|---|---|
| Traditional landline | Ask the provider which blocking features it offers. If your phone has a block list, use it for repeat numbers. A compatible call-blocking device can add rules or a prompt that screens callers. |
| Broadband or digital voice | Check the provider’s voice settings for spam labels, number blocking and a junk voicemail option. Use the least restrictive setting that deals with the calls you receive. |
Before buying hardware, check that it supports your line and any Caller ID service it needs. FTC call-blocking guide
Where to find blocking settings
| Provider or plan | What to look for |
|---|---|
| AT&T landline, US | On eligible home lines, *60 opens Call Block. Check your plan and the provider’s instructions before dialing. AT&T Call Block |
| Xfinity Voice, US | Look for Spam Blocker for suspected spam and Call Screening for individual numbers. Some plans exclude Call Screening. Xfinity Voice settings |
| Verizon Fios Digital Voice, US | Check your account’s calling features for Call Filter, a number block list or Anonymous Call Rejection. Verizon home-phone guidance |
| BT Home Phone, UK | On supported BT lines, use Call Protect in My BT or dial 1572 to manage junk voicemail. BT offers a VIP list with BT Answer 1571 or Call Minder. BT Call Protect guidance |
Test that calls you want still get through
- Call your home phone from a trusted second number before changing any setting. Note whether the phone rings and which voicemail answers.
- Turn on one filter. Repeat with a saved caller and an unfamiliar number you have permission to test with. Check regular and junk voicemail.
- If you use call forwarding, check the destination too. Xfinity says a number on its Call Screening list will be stopped before forwarding. Xfinity’s forwarding and screening rules
Waiting for a call from a hospital, school or delivery driver? Avoid blocking all unfamiliar or withheld callers until you know where those calls will go.
Common questions
Does the US Do Not Call Registry block robocalls?
The registry can reduce lawful sales calls. Use phone or provider settings to filter calls from scammers and other unwanted callers. FTC registry FAQ
Why do spam calls keep coming from new numbers?
Scammers can fake caller ID. Blocking one displayed number helps with repeat calls from that number. A provider’s spam filter or a compatible device can help with changing numbers. FTC guidance on caller ID and blocking
We checked provider guidance on November 13, 2026. If the unwanted calls come to your mobile instead, see our iPhone and Android spam-call guide. For UK nuisance calls, see Ofcom’s home-phone options.