How to ban calls from unknown numbers on Xiaomi: the complete guide

Unknown numbers, spam calls and fraudulent call centers have become a real scourge for smartphone owners. At Xiaomi (including Redmi and POCO), this problem is exacerbated by the features of the MIUI firmware, which by default skips most incoming calls. Unlike the iPhone, where the lock of unknown subscribers is set up in two clicks, Android requires deeper setup - or the use of third-party tools.

In this article, you will find 5 proven ways to get rid of annoying calls forever, from standard MIUI features to hidden operator settings to specialized applications. We will also discuss why some methods work unstable on different models (Redmi Note 12, POCO X5, Xiaomi 13T, etc.) and how to get around restrictions. Importantly, some solutions will require superuser rights (root), but most are available without them.

Built-in lock in MIUI: limitations and opportunities

MIUI firmware (versions 12-14) has a built-in spam filter, but it only works for numbers already blacklisted manually. Automatic blocking of unknown subscribers is disabled by default due to Xiaomi policy and the requirements of telecom operators in some regions (for example, in Russia and China).

To activate the basic protection:

1. Open the phone application (pipe icon).
2. Slip on three dots in the upper right corner → Settings.
3. Select Number Lock → Blacklist.
4. Turn on the Block Unknown Numbers switch (if you have one in your MIUI version).

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If you don't have "Block Unknown Numbers" option, your firmware doesn't support this feature. Try updating your MIUI to the latest version or using alternative methods from this article.

Limitations of the method:

• 🔴 Does not block numbers with a changed caller ID (Fraudsters often use numbers similar to your contacts).
• 🔴 Not working on VoIP calls (WhatsApp, Viber, Telegram).
• 🔴 List of blocked numbers resets after resetting settings.

Operator settings: how to disable unknown calls at level SIM-map

Many operators (MTS, Beeline, MegaFon, Tele2) offer spam filtering services, but they are often paid or require activation. USSD-commands to block unknown numbers at the network level, this works even if the caller has hidden his number (Anonymous or Private Number).

Instructions for the main operators:

⚠️ Note: These commands may conflict with services such as Antispam or Fraud Protection, which operators offer for a fee. Before activating, check if you have similar options through your personal account.

3. Third-party apps: Truecaller vs Should I Answer?

If the MIUI hardware doesn't work, the best option is to install a dedicated app, two market leaders: Truecaller and Should I Answer?.

• 📞 Truecaller uses a global database of spammers (over 500 million numbers), plus: it detects even swapped numbers.
• 🛡️ Should I Answer? — blocks calls based on user ratings. Plus: works offline. Minus: less database.

How to set up Truecaller on Xiaomi:

1. Download the app from Google Play.
2. Register (you can register through a Google account).
3. In the application settings, turn on: 🔹 Blocking spam 🔹 Definition of unknown numbers 🔹 Integration with phone (allow access to calls).

Settings → Blocking

⚠️ Attention: On Xiaomi with MIUI 13+ You may need to allow auto-run for Truecaller, otherwise the lock will not work:

1. Go to Settings → Applications → Application Management.
2. Find Truecaller → Autostart → turn on.
3. Also enable Show notifications and Allow system settings to change.

4. Android Hidden Settings: Do Not Disturb (DND) Lockdown

Android’s Do Not Disturb allows you to flexibly configure call filtering, including blocking unknown numbers. On Xiaomi, this feature is hidden deep in the settings, but it works more efficiently than the standard blacklist.

Step-by-step:

1. Open Settings → Sound and vibration → Do not disturb.
2. Select Calls → Who's the one to call.
3. Set the value of Contacts Only or Selected Contacts.
4. Go back and turn on the Do Not Disturb switch.

Advantages of the method:

• ✅ Blocks all unknown numbers, including hidden numbers.
• ✅ It works even if the phone is in sleep mode.
• ✅ You can configure exceptions for repeated calls (for example, if one number calls 2 times in a row - it will be blocked).

Energize the "Do not disturb" mode"|Select "Contacts Only" in the call settings|Add important numbers to your favorites|Check exceptions for repeat calls-->

⚠️ Attention: In mode DND Notifications from messengers (WhatsApp, Telegram) are also blocked. To avoid this, in the Do Not Disturb settings, add these apps to the Notification Exceptions.

5 Root solutions: full lock at system level

If you're ready to get root rights on your Xiaomi, you can block unknown calls at the Android kernel level, which is the most reliable method, but requires unlocking the bootloader and installing Magisk. It's suitable for power users.

Ways:

1. Change the build.prop file: ro.telephony.call_ring.delay=0 persist.radio.ignore_unknown_callers=1 These strings cause the system to ignore calls from unknown numbers at the hardware level.
2. Magisk Call Blocker Module: Install the module through Magisk Manager, which adds advanced locking rules.

Risks:

• 🔴 Loss of warranty (if the bootloader is unlocked).
• 🔴 Possible modem failures (disappearance of the network).
• 🔴 After updating MIUI settings may reset.

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Root methods are 100% blocking, but only for advanced users. For most, the methods in the previous sections are enough.

6.Alternative methods: second number and virtual SIM

If nothing works, the radical solution is to use number two only for important contacts.

• 📱 Through the virtual SIM (Services such as Dingtone or TextNow).
• 📱 With a double. SIM Xiaomi (if the model supports eSIM).
• 📱 Google Voice (not available in all countries).

How it works:

1. Activate the second number (physical or virtual).
2. Give it to only close and trusted contacts.
3. You leave the main number for registration, but do not answer calls from unknown numbers.

Pros:

• ✅ Complete isolation from spam.
• ✅ You can use different messengers for different numbers.

Cons:

• ❌ Additional costs for SIM-card.
• ❌ It is inconvenient to switch between numbers.

FAQ: Frequent questions about blocking calls on Xiaomi