Unknown numbers, spam calls and fraudulent calls have become a real problem for Xiaomi smartphone owners. According to Truecaller for 2026, Redmi and POCO users receive an average of 12 unwanted calls per week, from bank βadvisersβ to aggressive marketers. But unlike iPhones, where locking is integrated into iOS, on Android devices Xiaomi will have to adjust protection manually.
7 proven ways to weed out unknown numbers: from built-in features MIUI We'll take you through the Blacklist in the standard Phone app, why Google's Spam Blocking feature doesn't work, and what to do if scammers call from different numbers, and the unique method of blocking through the Internet. USSD-The operator of the company, which few people know.
1. Built-in blacklist in MIUI: how to add a number manually
The most obvious way is to use the standard phone app from Xiaomi, which is a system-level blacklisting feature that blocks calls before they reach the smartphone, and it is important that this method is only effective for fixed numbers (for example, if the same spammer calls regularly).
To add a number to the blacklist:
- π± Open the Phone app and go to the Call log.
- π Find an unwanted number and click on it (or hold your finger).
- β« In the menu that appears, select Add to the blacklist.
- β Confirm the action β the number will be permanently blocked.
If you want to block a number that hasnβt called yet, go to Settings β Blacklist β Add manually and enter it.
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In MIUI 14+, the blacklist syncs with Xiaomiβs account, meaning that the locked numbers will automatically be transferred to the new smartphone when you change device.
β οΈ Note: Built-in blacklist in MIUI block out SMS-To do this, you will have to use separate settings in the Messages application or third-party services.
2. Automatically block spam via Google Phone
Xiaomiβs MIUI Global smartphones have Google Phone installed by default (instead of Xiaomiβs standard Phone) with a built-in Spam and Fraud Protection feature that analyzes incoming calls in real time.
To activate it:
- Open Google Phone and click on the three dots in the top right corner.
- Select Settings β Protection against spam and fraud.
- Turn on the switches: π Filter spam calls (blocks known fraudulent numbers). π‘οΈ Check numbers (shows a warning when calling in). π Spam log (keeps history of blocked calls).
Google uses a database of spammers, which is updated daily, but there are disadvantages to this method:
- β Does not block numbers that are not in Googleβs database (e.g. new scams).
- β It only works on Google Phone β if you use the standard Xiaomi app, the feature will not be available.
3. Blocking through USSD-Operator commands (hidden method)
Few people know, but mobile operators (MTS, Beeline, MegaFon, Tele2) provide the opportunity to block incoming calls directly through the Internet. USSD-This is a way of working at the level of the team. SIM-This is a good idea for older Redmi models (for example, Redmi). 4A or Redmi Note 5).
Here are the commands for the main operators:
| Operator. | Lockdown team | Unlocking command | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| MTS | *111*301*number# | *111*300*number# | Locks up to 10 numbers. |
| Beeline | *110*701*number# | *110*700* number # | Paid service (30 rubles / month) |
| MegaFon | *130*1*number # | *130*0*number# | It only works for subscribers of All Inclusive tariffs. |
| Tele2. | *220*1*number# | *220*0*number# | The lock is valid for 30 days |
Example: To block the number +79123456789 on MTS, dial *111*301*79123456789# and click "Call".
β οΈ Note: Some operators have a lock through USSD paid (for example, Beeline - 30 rubles per month). Before using, check the tariffs on the operator's website or on the number 0611 (MTS), 067405 (Beeline).
How to check which numbers are blocked through the USSD?
4. Spam blocking apps: Truecaller vs. Who's calling?
If built-in methods don't work, you should install a specialized application, the two most popular options are Truecaller and Yandex's Who Calls, which are crowd-sourcing: users tag spammers, and the database is updated in real time.
Comparison of functions:
| Function | Truecaller | "Who's calling?" (Yandex) |
|---|---|---|
| Spamer database | β 500 million rooms | β 300 million (mainly Russia/CIS) |
| SMS lockdown | β Yes. | β Yes. |
| Definition of numbers | β Shows the name of the caller | β Only for business. |
| Battery consumption | β High (working in the background) | β Low. |
| Cost | Free (premium for 99 rubles / month) | Free of charge. |
How to set up a lock in Truecaller:
Install the app from Google Play|
Register (phone number required)|
Go to Settings β Lock β Autoblock |
Enable the option to Block Top Spam |
Add regions to lock (e.g. International numbers)|-->
Truecaller requires access to contacts and call logs. If you are confused, use Yandexβs Who Calls?: it does not ask for extra permissions, but only works in Russia.
5.Blocking all unknown numbers (radical method)
If you get swamped with calls from multiple numbers (like spoofing, a caller ID spoof), you can block all incoming calls except contacts, a method that is suitable for those who don't expect important calls from strangers.
Instructions for MIUI:
- Open Settings β Applications β Phone β Permissions.
- Find the Call Lock option (in some versions of MIUI it is hidden in Additional Settings).
- Choose to Block all unknown numbers.
- Exceptions include the numbers that must pass (e.g. 112, 911, delivery service).
On the Redmi Note 10/11/12 and newer models, this item may be called Call Filter. If you don't have an option, use the Call Blocker app from Google Play.
β οΈ Note: Once activated, you will not be able to receive calls from new customers, couriers or support services (unless their numbers are saved in contacts.
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Radical locking of unknown numbers is only suitable for those who are not dependent on incoming calls from strangers.
6. Operator setting: how to connect "Antispam"
Large operators offer their own spam filtering services, such as MegaFon's Antispam and MTS's Anti-Craud Protection, which block calls at the network level, so they work even when the phone is turned off.
How to connect:
- πΆ MTS: send SMS numbered 1116 or *111*678#.
- πΆ MegaFon: dial *505*1# Or connect in your personal account.
- πΆ Beeline: the service "Spam filter" is connected by command *110*789# (30 rub).
- πΆ Television2: Free Antispam is activated through USSD *155*1#.
Advantages of Operator Anti-Spam:
- β Work without the Internet and installed applications.
- β Blocking. SMS-Spam (as opposed to a built-in blacklist) MIUI).
- β Update the database of fraudsters automatically.
Disadvantages:
- β Not all operators provide free service.
- β Can block legitimate calls (e.g. from banks or delivery services).
7. Additional measures: how to reduce the amount of spam
Even with locks, unknown numbers can leak out, to minimize the number of numbers:
- π Do not publish a number in the public domain (social networks, forums, ads). Scammers collect databases through parsers.
- π Use the second number to register (for example, virtual via Telegram or Google Voice).
- π‘οΈ Turn off βSuggest Numberβ on WhatsApp (in privacy settings).
- π΅ Donβt answer spam calls β even a single touch can confirm that the number is βliveβ and the spammer will call more often.
If you get annoyed by collectors or scammers who pretend to be banks, you can complain:
- π To the Central Bank by phone 8 800 300-30-00 (if you call on behalf of the bank).
- π To the website of Roskomsvoboda (if spam is massive).
- π² In support of the operator (for example, MTS blocks the numbers for complaints within 24 hours).