Introduction
If you want to stop WhatsApp calls but still receive messages, you’re not alone. I tested several ways to do this and found a few reliable tricks that let you keep chats active while silencing or blocking unwanted calls.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- Why you might want to block WhatsApp calls
- How to block or silence calls on Android and iPhone
- Steps for handling unknown callers and spam
- Extra tips to manage calls without deleting chats
Let’s jump in.
Why You Might Want to Block WhatsApp Calls
Unwanted WhatsApp calls can be frustrating — especially when you’re in meetings, sleeping, or just not in the mood to talk. Maybe it’s a spammer, maybe it’s someone who calls too much. Whatever the reason, you want peace and quiet without cutting off messages completely.
Methods to Block or Silence WhatsApp Calls
.webp)
1. Block a Contact (Stops Both Calls and Messages)
If you’re done dealing with someone entirely, blocking them is the easiest way.
Steps:
- Open WhatsApp and go to the chat.
- Tap the contact’s name.
- Scroll down and tap Block Contact → confirm.
Once blocked, they can’t call or message you.
Pros:
- Complete stop to calls and messages
- Simple to undo anytime
Cons:
- You lose their messages
- They might notice the block
2. Silence Unknown Callers
WhatsApp added a built-in option to automatically silence calls from numbers not saved in your contacts.
Steps:
- Open WhatsApp → Settings → Privacy → Calls
- Toggle Silence Unknown Callers ON
You’ll still get missed call notifications and messages, but your phone won’t ring.
Pros:
- Great for avoiding spam or random calls
- Messages still appear normally
Cons:
- Saved numbers will still ring
- Calls still show in the log
3. Mute WhatsApp Call Notifications
If you just want peace without blocking anyone, you can mute call alerts.
On Android:
- Go to Settings → Apps → WhatsApp → Notifications
- Find Incoming Calls and set the sound to Silent or turn it off
On iPhone:
- Go to Settings → Notifications → WhatsApp
- Turn off Sounds or disable Allow Notifications for calls
Pros:
- Calls won’t ring out loud
- Messages stay active
Cons:
- Calls will still appear on screen
- Doesn’t block call attempts
4. Disable Call Permissions (Advanced Option)
This method disables calling functions entirely but still lets messages work fine.
On Android:
- Go to Settings → Apps → WhatsApp → Permissions
- Deny access to Phone and Microphone
You can also limit background data:
- Settings → Apps → WhatsApp → Mobile Data & Wi-Fi → Restrict background data
On iPhone:
- Open Settings → WhatsApp
- Turn off Microphone and Camera access
- Use Focus Mode or Do Not Disturb to silence calls
Pros:
- Stops WhatsApp calls from connecting
- Keeps chats working normally
Cons:
- Voice and video notes might stop working
- Some settings reset after app updates
Extra Tips
.webp)
- Update WhatsApp: Features like “Silence Unknown Callers” come with newer versions.
- Report spam: If someone keeps calling from unknown numbers, use Block & Report inside WhatsApp.
- Use Do Not Disturb: You can mute WhatsApp calls during specific times while still receiving messages.
- Business users: WhatsApp Business lets you manage call hours and disable calls during off times.
FAQs
1. Can I block WhatsApp calls but still get messages?
Yes — silence unknown callers or turn off call permissions while keeping messaging active.
2. How do I stop spam or unknown WhatsApp calls?
Go to Settings → Privacy → Calls → Silence Unknown Callers.
3. Does blocking someone delete the chat?
No. It only stops messages and calls — the chat stays until you delete it manually.
4. Will disabling call permissions affect messages?
No, but you might not be able to send voice notes or video messages.
5. Can I completely turn off WhatsApp calling?
Not officially. You can only silence or restrict calls using the methods above.
Final Thoughts
Whether you want to silence random calls or stop a specific contact from interrupting you, WhatsApp gives you a few solid options. Personally, I use Silence Unknown Callers and muted notifications — it keeps my chats open but my phone quiet.
Try one or combine a few — you’ll be able to stay connected without the constant ringing.