How to Block & Unblock Contacts on WhatsApp

WhatsApp is one of the most widely used messaging apps in the world, with millions of people in the UK relying on it for both personal and professional communication. While the app is convenient, there mnotnay be times when you want to stop someone from contacting you. Whether it's a persistent spammer, an ex-partner, or simply someone you'd prefer not to hear from, WhatsApp makes it simple to block and later unblock contacts.

In this detailed guide, we'll cover how to block and unblock contacts on WhatsApp across Android, iOS, and WhatsApp Web, explore what happens when you block someone, and answer common questions users often have about this feature.

What Does Blocking on WhatsApp Actually Do?

Blocking is a privacy feature that prevents unwanted communication. When you block someone on WhatsApp:

• They can no longer send you messages or call you via WhatsApp.
• They won't be able to see updates to your profile picture, status, or last seen.
• You won't receive messages, calls, or status updates from them.

Importantly, blocking only affects interactions within WhatsApp. It does not block phone calls, SMS, or emails outside the app.

How to Block a Contact on WhatsApp (Android)

Blocking on Android devices takes just a few taps. Here's how to do it:

1. Open the WhatsApp app on your Android phone.
2. Go to the chat with the person you want to block.
3. Tap the three dots in the top-right corner.
4. Select More and then tap Block.
5. Confirm your choice.

Alternatively, you can:

• Open WhatsApp → Tap More options (three dots) → Settings → Privacy → Blocked contacts → Add → Select the contact you want to block.

How to Block a Contact on WhatsApp (iPhone)

On iOS, the process is equally straightforward:

1. Launch WhatsApp on your iPhone.
2. Open the chat with the person you want to block.
3. Tap the contact's name at the top of the screen. 4.Scroll down and select Block Contact.
4. Confirm by tapping Block again.

You can also manage blocked contacts by navigating to:

• Settings → Privacy → Blocked → Add New → Select the contact.

How to Block a Contact on WhatsApp Web

If you prefer using WhatsApp on your computer, blocking is just as simple:

1. Open WhatsApp Web in your browser and scan the QR code if needed.
2. Open the chat with the person you want to block.
3. Click on the contact's name at the top of the chat.
4. Scroll down and click Block Contact.
5. Confirm by selecting Block.

What Happens When You Block Someone on WhatsApp?

Many people wonder what the other person sees when they're blocked. The answer is subtle - WhatsApp doesn't notify them directly. However, they might notice clues such as:

• They can no longer see your last seen or online status.
• Messages they send to you will show only one grey tick (sent) instead of two (delivered).
• Your profile picture and status updates stop being visible.

That said, WhatsApp doesn't explicitly tell them they've been blocked, preserving your privacy.

How to Unblock a Contact on WhatsApp (Android)

If you've had a change of heart, unblocking is quick:

1. Open WhatsApp on your Android device.
2. Tap the three dots → Settings → Privacy → Blocked contacts.
3. Tap and hold the contact you want to unblock.
4. Tap Unblock.

You can also open the chat, tap the contact's name, and select Unblock directly.

How to Unblock a Contact on WhatsApp (iPhone)

On iOS, the steps are just as easy:

1. Open WhatsApp.
2. Go to Settings → Privacy → Blocked.
3. Find the person you want to unblock.
4. Swipe left on their name and tap Unblock.

Alternatively, open the chat, tap their name, and choose Unblock Contact.

How to Unblock a Contact on WhatsApp Web

To unblock someone on the web version:

1. Open WhatsApp Web.
2. Click the three dots at the top of your chat list → Settings → Blocked.
3. Find the contact you want to unblock and click Unblock.

Can You Block Unknown Numbers on WhatsApp?

Yes, you can block numbers that are not saved in your contacts. If an unknown number messages you:

• Open the chat.
• You'll see an option at the bottom to Block, Report, or Add to contacts.
• Tap Block to stop any further communication.

This feature is especially useful for stopping spam messages.

How to Report and Block Spam on WhatsApp

Sometimes blocking isn't enough - you may want to report the sender. WhatsApp allows you to do this:

1. Open the chat with the spammer.
2. Scroll to the bottom and select Report Contact.
3. You can also tick the option to Block contact and delete messages.

This sends the last few messages to WhatsApp for review, which helps improve spam detection.

Will Someone Know If You Block or Unblock Them?

No, WhatsApp does not notify users when they are blocked or unblocked. However, the subtle clues mentioned earlier (such as messages not delivering or last seen disappearing) may lead them to guess.

When you unblock them, previously blocked messages will not be delivered, but they'll be able to message you again moving forward.

Common Questions About Blocking on WhatsApp

Can I still see messages from someone I blocked?

No, any messages sent while blocked will never be delivered to you, even after you unblock the person.

Does blocking remove the chat history?

No, blocking doesn't delete chats. The conversation remains visible on your device unless you delete it manually.

Can I block someone without opening their chat?

Yes. On both Android and iOS, you can go directly to Settings → Privacy → Blocked contacts → Add New, and select the person without opening their messages.

Can blocked contacts see my WhatsApp status updates?

No, blocked contacts cannot see your status updates, profile picture changes, or last seen.

Tips for Managing Your Privacy on WhatsApp

Blocking and unblocking are just one part of privacy management. To make your WhatsApp experience safer:

• Regularly review your blocked contacts.
• Adjust your last seen, profile photo, and status visibility in Privacy settings.
• Enable two-step verification for extra account security.
• Report suspicious or scam messages promptly.

Control Your WhatsApp Experience

WhatsApp gives you full control over who can contact you. Blocking and unblocking is easy to do across Android, iPhone, and WhatsApp Web, and it provides a discreet way to protect your privacy. Whether you're dealing with spam, unwanted attention, or just need a break from certain contacts, knowing how to use these tools effectively ensures you stay in charge of your messaging experience.