Nuisance and scam calls are a daily frustration for many households across the UK, especially for elderly people who rely heavily on landlines. While registering with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) can reduce legitimate telemarketing, scammers and overseas callers often find ways to bypass it.
A landline call blocking device—such as the CPR Call Blocker—is one of the best tools to stop these unwanted calls. This guide explains how to set up your call blocker at home and make the most of its features for complete protection.
What Do Call Blocker Devices Do?
Call blockers connect between your landline phone and wall socket. They automatically filter incoming calls and prevent known scam or nuisance numbers from ringing through.
Most modern call blockers can:
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Block thousands of unwanted numbers.
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Stop international or withheld calls.
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Allow a whitelist of trusted contacts.
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Display call logs for easy monitoring.
Many devices, including CPR Call Blocker, come pre-programmed with thousands of known scam numbers identified by authorities like the ICO and Action Fraud.
Summary: Call blockers connect to your landline, filtering scam and nuisance calls using pre-programmed databases and customizable blocking options.
Step-by-Step: How to Set Up a Call Blocker on a UK Landline
Here’s a simple process to get your device up and running:
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Unplug your landline phone from the wall socket.
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Connect the call blocker to the phone socket using the supplied cable.
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Plug your landline phone into the call blocker’s “Phone” port.
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Ensure Caller ID is active – Contact your provider (BT, Virgin, Sky, TalkTalk, etc.) to enable Caller ID, as most blockers rely on it.
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Power on the device – Some models draw power from the line; others need batteries or a USB cable.
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Wait for the welcome message or display screen to confirm setup.
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Test with a trusted call – Call your landline from your mobile to ensure the system works correctly.
Once connected, the device starts screening all incoming calls.
Summary: Set up by connecting the blocker between your landline and wall socket, ensuring Caller ID is enabled, and testing with a known number.
How to Use Common Features on UK Call Blockers
After installation, explore the key features:
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One-touch blocking: Press the “Block Now” button during or after a nuisance call to stop that number permanently.
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Whitelist mode: Program family, doctors, or friends’ numbers so only trusted contacts can reach you.
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Display screen: View recent calls and manage blocked numbers.
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Pre-programmed database: Keep automatic blocking of known scam lists updated if your model supports it.
Example: After installing a CPR Call Blocker, a retired couple in Manchester reduced scam calls by 95% within a week, thanks to its one-touch blocking and whitelist function.
Summary: Use one-touch blocking, whitelist trusted numbers, and rely on pre-loaded scam databases for maximum protection.
Troubleshooting and Tips
If the device isn’t working as expected:
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Check Caller ID – Without it, the device can’t identify calls.
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Reboot – Unplug the unit for 30 seconds and reconnect.
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Check wiring – Ensure cables are firmly connected to both the wall socket and phone.
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Avoid cordless phone interference – Place devices at least 20 cm apart.
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Read the manual – Each brand may have unique functions (some block all unknown numbers by default).
Summary: If issues occur, check Caller ID, connections, reboot the device, and consult the manual for model-specific settings.
Conclusion
Setting up a call blocker on your UK landline is quick, easy, and one of the most effective ways to stop nuisance calls. Once installed, these devices protect your household from scams, reduce stress, and give you peace of mind—especially if you care for elderly relatives.
Explore CPR Call Blocker to protect your loved ones today.
FAQs
Q: Do I need Caller ID for my call blocker to work?
A: Yes, Caller ID must be active for the device to identify and block calls.
Q: Can call blockers stop overseas or spoofed numbers?
A: Many devices can block withheld or international calls, helping to reduce spoofed numbers.
Q: Are call blockers legal in the UK?
A: Yes, they’re fully legal and encouraged by organisations like Age UK and the ICO.
Q: Can I use call blockers with cordless phones?
A: Yes, they work with most modern cordless systems.
