WhatsApp’s Silence Unknown Callers feature lets users mute calls from unfamiliar numbers without blocking them, helping reduce spam while keeping important calls accessible.
Receiving unexpected WhatsApp calls from unknown numbers can be frustrating, whether you’re working, sleeping or simply trying to avoid spam. While blocking every unfamiliar number isn’t always practical, WhatsApp offers a smarter solution with its Silence Unknown Callers feature.
Instead of blocking callers outright, this setting automatically mutes calls from numbers that aren’t saved in your contacts. The calls won’t ring on your phone, but they will still appear in your WhatsApp call history, allowing you to review them later if needed.
What Is WhatsApp’s Silence Unknown Callers Feature?
The Silence Unknown Callers option is designed to protect users from spam, scam and nuisance calls without cutting off communication completely.
When enabled:
- Voice and video calls from unknown WhatsApp numbers are automatically muted.
- Your phone won’t ring when these calls arrive.
- The calls will still be visible in the Calls tab.
- Callers can continue sending WhatsApp messages.
- You can later decide whether to save the number, return the call, block it or report it.
This feature only affects WhatsApp calls and does not mute regular phone calls received through your mobile network.
How to Enable Silence Unknown Callers on Android
Follow these steps to turn on the feature:
- Open WhatsApp on your Android device.
- Tap the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Privacy.
- Scroll down and select Calls.
- Enable Silence Unknown Callers.
Once activated, calls from unsaved numbers will no longer interrupt you with a ringtone. You can switch the feature off anytime by following the same steps.
How to Turn It On on iPhone
iPhone users can enable the feature in just a few taps:
- Launch WhatsApp.
- Tap Settings at the bottom-right of the screen.
- Open Privacy.
- Select Calls.
- Turn on Silence Unknown Callers.
If you don’t see the option, update WhatsApp from the Apple App Store and check again.
Things to Remember Before Using the Feature
Silencing unknown callers is not the same as blocking them. While their calls won’t ring, they can still reach you through WhatsApp messages, and their call attempts will remain available in your call log.
If you’re expecting calls from delivery executives, hospitals, recruiters or businesses, it’s a good idea to check your WhatsApp call history regularly. Saving trusted numbers to your contacts ensures future calls won’t be treated as unknown.
Stay Safe From WhatsApp Scams
Cybercriminals often use unknown WhatsApp numbers to target users with fraud attempts. If someone asks you to share an OTP, UPI PIN, bank details or requests an urgent payment, end the conversation immediately.
Avoid calling back suspicious international numbers unless you’ve verified their authenticity. If you believe a caller is fraudulent, use WhatsApp’s built-in Block and Report options to help protect yourself and others.
For additional security, users can also explore WhatsApp’s Privacy Checkup under Settings > Privacy, which offers more tools to improve account safety and control personal information.