Where Xiaomi has a blacklist: the complete setup guide

Modern Xiaomi smartphones have powerful tools to protect against unwanted calls, which are built directly into the system shell of MIUI. Users often face the need to block a specific number, but can not immediately find the desired item in the menu, as it can be hidden in different sections depending on the firmware version. Understanding where exactly the blacklist is located, allows you to effectively manage incoming traffic and stay calm.

In this article, we will take a closer look at all possible paths to lock settings, including standard menus and hidden engineering codes, how to quickly add a contact to Blacklist, how to set up automatic spam filtering, and what to do if an important subscriber is accidentally blocked.

Xiaomi’s system interface is constantly changing, and the layout of elements may differ on older versions of Android and the latest builds of HyperOS. We will cover the basic scenarios so you can find the right functionality on any device model, whether it’s a budget Redmi or a flagship Mi.

Access via the standard "Phone" application

The fastest and most obvious way to get into lock settings is to use the built-in call app, which is where users most often add numbers to Blacklist after missing a call or viewing a call history. The interface may vary slightly depending on which "caller" is installed by default: the standard MIUI Dialer or Google Phone.

If you use a standard number dial from Xiaomi, the top right corner of the call screen usually has a menu icon or gears, and if you click on it, you'll see a list of options, including "Antispam" or "Black List," which is where you store the database of all blocked contacts and configure filtering rules.

For owners of devices with Google Dialer installed, the path may be a little different, in which case you need to go to the settings of the application itself, find the β€œBlocked Numbers” section and manage the list from there. It is important to understand that Xiaomi system blockers may not sync directly with the Google database without additional permissions.

⚠️ Note: When you change the standard call app, the blacklist settings may not be automatically reset. Check the locks in the new app separately.

Use of the "Security" application

The central hub for managing the system on Xiaomi smartphones is the Security app, which is where all the security tools, including antivirus, memory cleanup and, of course, call blocking, are concentrated, and is the most reliable place to deep-tube filtering rules.

To get to the desired section, open the Security app and find the Antispam icon. Inside this menu you will find the Black List tab (or Lock), which is much more functional than in a simple caller: you can create schedules, set the lock by keywords in SMS and select silence modes.

The Antispam menu also has an update database for spam numbers, and it is recommended to check periodically for updates to this database to ensure that the protection works as effectively as possible against new scams.

πŸ’‘

Periodically clean the log of blocked calls in the Security app so that the system runs faster and does not overflow with cache.

One of the useful features in this section is the ability to import and export lists, which is especially true when switching to a new Xiaomi smartphone when you need to quickly move all your lock settings from your old device.

Hidden menus and engineering codes

For advanced users who don't find the right options in the standard interface, there are special codes for logging into the engineering menu, which allow you to access hidden network settings and calls that are not visible to the average user, but you should use them with extreme caution.

One of the most famous codes for logging into the Call Settings menu is ##4636##. By entering it in the dialer, you will be taken to the testing menu, where you can find information about call statistics and sometimes redirect settings, which can conflict with the blacklist.

Another useful code for resetting call settings is ##72786### (not working on all models), which can help if the blacklist has stopped working properly due to a software failure. Before entering any codes, make sure you understand the consequences of their application.

⚠️ Warning: Changing the parameters in the engineering menu without an accurate understanding of their function can lead to loss of communication or unstable operation of the communication module.

Some users try to find a blacklist through the developer menu, and while you can debug the call processes, there's no direct control of the number database, it's better to stay within the regular Security and Phone apps.

What happens if you enter the wrong code?
In most cases, nothing will happen β€” the code just won’t work or an unnecessary menu will open, but some codes can reset the network settings to factory settings.

Step-by-step instruction for adding a number

The process of adding a number to Blacklist can be done in several ways: the simplest is call history. Find an unnecessary number in the magazine, click on it and select the option "Add to blacklist".

The second way is through contacts: Open the contact card you want to block, click three dots in the corner of the screen and select the appropriate item, the number immediately disappears from incoming visibility, and the caller hears the signal is occupied or reset.

The third option is manually add through settings, which is convenient if you want to lock a whole range of numbers or a number that is not in history. Open lock settings, click Add and enter the number manually.

β˜‘οΈ Algorithm for adding a number

Done: 0 / 4

After adding a number, it is recommended to check the list of blocked to make sure that the number is recorded correctly, without unnecessary symbols or country codes that can interfere with the filter.

Table: Comparison of blocking methods

Different methods of managing the blacklist have their advantages and disadvantages. Below is a comparison table that will help you choose the best way to solve your situation.

MethodDifficultyFunctionalAvailability
Through the Phone.Low.Basic lockdownAlways.
Annex "Security"MediumExtended (SMS, schedule)Always.
Engineering menuTall.Diagnostics and dischargeDepends on the model.
Third-party annexesMediumMaximum (spam bases)Requires installation

As you can see from the table, for most users, the best solution is to use the built-in Security application, as it provides a balance between simplicity and functionality.

Third-party applications may only be required if the embedded databases are not updated in your region or if the MIUI functionality is not sufficient for specific filtering tasks.

Set up rules and exceptions

Xiaomi’s flexibility allows you to configure not only specific numbers, but also entire caller categories, for example, you can block all hidden numbers or numbers that are not saved in contacts, which is especially useful during periods of active phone spam.

An important feature is the creation of a whitelist, which can add contacts that will take place even if the mode is "Do not disturb" or completely lock all unknown numbers, which ensures that you do not miss a call from the doctor or loved ones.

You can also set up your response to a blocked call, you can choose whether the caller will hear beeps, short beeps or immediately reset. For SMS, you can set up automatic deletion of messages from blocked senders.

πŸ“Š What type of lock you use more often?
Only specific numbers.
Blocking hidden numbers
Complete blocking of unknowns
I don't use a blocker.

Do not forget to check the settings periodically, as after major MIUI updates, some parameters may reset to factory values.

Decision and advice

Sometimes users are faced with a situation where the blacklist stops working: calls from blocked numbers pass, often due to the fact that the Security application was unloaded from RAM by the power saving system.

To avoid this, you need to lock the application in memory. Open the menu of running applications, find Security or Antispam and press the lock. Also, in the battery settings for this application, you should allow auto-start and work in the background.

Another problem is the conflict with SIM-Some operators offer their own locking services, which may overlap with the phone's functions, in such cases it is recommended to disable the operator's services or set their priority.

⚠️ Note: If after updating the firmware blacklist is missing, check the access rights of the application "Security" in the "Permissions" section".

For comprehensive protection, use a combination of built-in tools and caution when handing out your number.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can a blocked subscriber know that he is on the blacklist?
The caller will not receive a direct notification, and it will sound like a normal call, but either reset or go unanswered, but the nature of the reset will tell an experienced user that the call is blocked.
How many numbers can you add to the blacklist on Xiaomi?
There is no technical limit to the number of numbers in the built-in list, the limits only depend on the device's free memory. You can add thousands of numbers, and the system will work steadily.
Does the blacklist remain when resetting settings?
When you completely reset to the factory settings (Wipe Data), all data, including the blacklist, will be deleted. Before reset, it is recommended to make a backup through the Mi Cloud or the Security application.
Does the blacklist work if the phone is turned off?
No, the blacklist is a software feature of a smartphone, where if the device is off or offline, it can't handle incoming calls and block them. The caller will hear "subscriber is unavailable."
How to unlock all the numbers at once?
In the "Security" -> "Antispam" -> "Black List" application, you can select the control mode, click on the menu (three dots) and select "Clear the blacklist" or delete the numbers selectively.