Where in the Xiaomi phone blacklist: search and setup

Modern Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones, which run on MIUI shells or the new HyperOS, provide users with powerful tools to filter unwanted calls. The problem of spam and intrusive advertising offers is especially acute, forcing device owners to look for effective ways to isolate themselves from external noise. The built-in functionality of the system allows you to block incoming calls and SMS messages without requiring the installation of third-party software, which saves battery and RAM resources.

Many users mistakenly believe that to create a stop list of contacts necessarily need applications from Google Play. In fact, Xiaomi engineers integrated a full security module directly into the core of the system. It is hidden from the surface, but with the right approach becomes a reliable shield. In this article, we will examine in detail where on the Xiaomi phone blacklist, how to manage it and what hidden opportunities it holds for advanced users.

Before you jump into specific menu paths, it’s important to understand that settings can vary slightly depending on the version of the Android operating system and regional firmware (Global, China, EEA). However, the logic of the Security app remains the same for the entire brand ecosystem.

Search through the System Security App

The main tool for controlling bans on Xiaomi smartphones is a pre-installed app called Security, which has a characteristic green icon with a shield and is usually located in the Tools folder on the home screen or in the menu of all applications, and this is where all the functions of the antivirus, the memory cleaner and, most importantly for us, the call blocker are concentrated.

Once you start the program, you need to scroll down to a section that may be called Antispam or have a separate icon with your phone crossed out. In some versions of MIUI, this item is placed at the top of the interface for quick access. Clicking on this option opens the gateway to managing all kinds of communication restrictions of your device.

Inside the anti-spam menu, you'll see switches for different types of lockdowns, where you can activate a ban on calls from unknown numbers, hidden identifiers or numbers labeled as spam by other users. The system offers a flexible setup: you can choose whether to simply drop a call or completely ignore the caller, without even leaving a notification about the missed call.

  • 📱 Open the Security app (green shield).
  • 🛡️ Find and click on the “Antispam” or “Block” section».
  • 📞 Choose the type of lock: calls, messages, or both.
  • ⚙️ Set up rules for hidden and tagged numbers.

⚠️ Warning: When enabling locking all unknown numbers, be careful if you expect an important call from a courier or doctor whose number is not in your notebook.

💡

Check the blocked call log in the Security app regularly to make sure that important contacts are not getting there by mistake.

Adding numbers through call log and contacts

There is a faster way to blacklist a specific number without diving into the deep security application settings, ideal when you need to urgently block a specific harasser or spammer who just called you, just open the standard Phone app and go to the Recent tab.

Find the number you want in the list and click on it to open the additional menu, or select the "i" icon in the viewing circle. The contact or number information window that opens often features a "Block" button or an option to "Add to the blacklist." Depending on the shell version, this button can be hidden under a menu of three dots in the corner of the screen.

The alternative is through the Contacts app. Find the person on the list, open their card, and select the lock point in the bottom menu or through additional settings. Once confirmed, all incoming calls and messages from that subscriber will be automatically cut off by the system, and the caller will hear the signal busy or beeping, depending on the operator's settings.

This is a good way to do things quickly, but it doesn't allow you to have access to subtle settings, like setting a lock schedule or setting specific rules for different contact groups, and it's perfect for basic protection against a particular person, saving nerves and time.

☑️ Checking the lock of a specific number

Done: 0 / 4

Setting up smart filters and cloud databases

One of Xiaomi’s strengths is its integration with cloud-based databases to identify spam. Unlike a static blacklist where numbers are entered manually, smart filters work dynamically, checking the incoming number against a huge database of complaints from other users, labeling calls as “Advertising”, “Fraudsters” or “Telemarketing”.

To activate this feature, you need to go to the settings in the Antispam menu (usually the gear in the corner) and find the item “Update databases” or “Identity settings.” Here, it is important to make sure that the ticks are against the categories you want to block automatically.

Using smart filters reduces the user’s workload, since you don’t need to know the fraudster’s number in advance – the system recognizes it itself, but it should be noted that this feature requires periodic network connection, as well as the transfer of hashes of numbers to the service provider’s servers (usually Tencent or local partners depending on the region).

  • 🌐 Go to the Antispam settings via the Security app.
  • 🔄 Click on “Update databases” for current listings.
  • 🏷️ Activate the switches "Block marked numbers».
  • 📂 Select categories: fraudsters, advertising, delivery, etc.

⚠️ Note: In some regions (e.g. Europe), cloud identity functions may be restricted due to data protection laws (GDPR), Therefore, the databases can be updated less often.

Hidden opportunities through engineering menu and code

For advanced users who want to gain maximum control, there is access to hidden settings through special devices. USSD-Xiaomi phones often have code ##4636##, which opens the test menu. Although direct access to the blacklist from here is rare, you can check the status of the network and switch modes, which sometimes helps if the lock is not working due to a network failure.

A more effective method for older versions of MIUI was to type in #86475## (Antispam), which immediately opened the blocker settings. In newer versions, this code can be disabled by developers for security reasons, but it is still worth trying to enter it in a standard call. If the code works, you will instantly be taken to the deep filtering settings menu.

Also worth mentioning is the ability to manage via ADB (Android Debug Bridge) for those who connect the phone to a computer, and the command line can enforce lock rules or export lists, although this is redundant for the average user, with the emphasis on the graphical interface, which has become more friendly in recent versions.

What to do if the codes don't work?
If you don't get the codes right, your firmware version restricts access to those features. Use the standard Security app, which provides 99% of the functionality you need without the risk of breaking anything.

Keep in mind that tampering with system settings through hidden menus requires caution. Changing settings you are not sure about can cause the communication module to work unstable, so use code combinations only to view information or activate already known features such as the anti-spam menu.

Comparison of functions in MIUI and HyperOS

With the release of the new HyperOS operating system, the interface and logic of many system applications have changed. The blacklist is no exception: it has become more integrated into the overall system of notifications and smart scripts. While MIUI offered a rather rigid separation between the phone application and security, HyperOS combines these data streams.

The new shell features improved visual style of blocked call cards, added smoother animations and detailed statistics. HyperOS users note that the system has become “smarter” to recognize spam calls even if the number has changed, but the algorithm remains the same.

FunctionMIUI 12-14HyperOS 1.0+
Location of the menuSecurity AnnexApplication Phone / Security
IdentificationBasic cloudImproved. AI-identification
Interface.Classic listPreview cards
SynchronizationThrough the Mi CloudXiaomi HyperOS Connect via Xiaomi HyperOS

Regardless of the shell version, the basic principle remains the same: protect the user from unwanted intrusion. If you move from MIUI to HyperOS, your blacklist settings may automatically move when you update, but it is better to manually check them, as new algorithms may interpret the old rules differently.

💡

Switching to HyperOS improves visualization and spam detection accuracy, but the basic principles of blacklisting remain the same.

The solution: why the lock is not working

Sometimes users are faced with a situation where the number seems to be locked, but calls continue to flow. The first reason is often the settings of the operator itself. Some services "Anti-definition" or "Blacklist" at the network level may conflict with the settings of the phone, in which case priority may be given to network settings.

The second common reason is the presence of number-defining applications (e.g. GetContact, Truecaller) that have the right to intercept calls. They can create a conflict with the system blocker Xiaomi.

Also worth checking is if a contact has been added to the White List. Many phones have favorites or family contacts prioritizing and can call even when Do Not Disturb mode is enabled or lock strictly. Check the exception list in the Security app settings.

  • 📶 Check the operator's services (set *111# or operator's application).
  • 📵 Disable third-party number detectors to avoid conflicts.
  • ⭐ Check if the number is in the list of "Favorites».
  • 🔄 Restart the device to update system rules.

⚠️ Note: If you use Do Not Disturb mode, make sure that it does not have permission to call again from the same numbers in its settings – this may skip spam.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I find out who called from the locked number?
Yes, the Security app under the Antispam or Blocking section keeps a log of all blocked events, displaying the number, call time and, if any, tag (spam, advertising), but you can't listen to the recording of the conversation from the locked number, since the call is interrupted before the connection.
How many numbers can you add to the blacklist on Xiaomi?
There is no technical limit to the number of numbers on the blacklist on Xiaomi smartphones. You can add thousands of contacts. The only limit may be the amount of memory on the phone, but the text of the numbers takes up negligible space, so in practice there are no limits for the user.
Will I receive an SMS from a blocked number?
By default, if you blacklist a number, you block both calls and SMS messages, but you can flexibly set the rules in Antispam settings, such as blocking only calls and skipping messages, or vice versa. Check the appropriate switches in the settings menu.
How to unlock a number if I added it by mistake?
To do this, go back to the Security app -> Antispam -> Blacklist (or Blocked) and find the number in the list, click on it and select the Unblock option or remove it from the list by swipe or through the delete menu.
📊 How do you most often fight spam?
Ignoring calls.
Using a blacklist of my phone.
I'm putting in third-party applications.
Complaining to the operator