The world of telecommunications is filled with secrets and shortcuts that can make our lives easier, but often remain unknown to the average user. One such mystery is the function of dialing 87 on a cell phone. This sequence of numbers has been shrouded in mystery, with many speculating about its purpose. In this article, we will delve into the world of telecommunications and uncover the truth behind 87, exploring its uses, benefits, and how it can enhance your cell phone experience.
Introduction to Star Codes
Before we dive into the specifics of *87, it’s essential to understand what star codes are. Star codes, also known as feature codes or service codes, are sequences of numbers that start with the * symbol, followed by a series of digits. These codes are used to access various features and services on your cell phone, ranging from call forwarding and blocking to account management and troubleshooting. Star codes are provided by your cellular network provider and can vary depending on the carrier and the services they offer.
Common Star Codes
While 87 is the focus of our discussion, it’s worth mentioning a few other common star codes that you might find useful. For instance, 67 is used to block your caller ID, while 69 can be used to automatically call back the last number that called you. Another useful code is 72, which activates call forwarding. These codes can be incredibly handy in managing your calls and privacy, but it’s crucial to note that not all star codes are compatible with every cell phone or network provider.
Carrier-Specific Star Codes
It’s also important to recognize that some star codes are carrier-specific. This means that a code that works on one network might not work on another. For example, Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and Sprint all have their own set of star codes for different services. If you’re unsure about a specific code or its compatibility with your network, it’s always best to consult your carrier’s customer support or website for detailed information.
The Functionality of *87
Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: what does 87 do on a cell phone? The 87 code is specifically used for call blocking or anonymous call rejection. When you dial *87, you are essentially activating a feature that blocks calls from private or anonymous numbers. This can be a powerful tool in reducing unwanted calls, such as telemarketing or spam calls, which often come from blocked or private numbers.
How *87 Works
The process of using 87 is relatively straightforward. By dialing 87 and then the number you wish to block, you can prevent future calls from that number. However, the exact method of using 87 can vary slightly depending on your carrier and the type of phone you’re using. Some carriers might require you to dial 87 and then follow the prompts to block a number, while others might have a more direct method.
Benefits of Using *87
The benefits of using 87 are numerous. For one, it provides an effective way to manage unwanted calls, helping to reduce distractions and protect your privacy. In an era where spam calls are on the rise, having a tool like 87 at your disposal can be incredibly valuable. Additionally, *87 can help in preventing potential scams, as many scam calls originate from private or blocked numbers.
Alternatives to *87
While *87 is a useful tool for call blocking, it’s not the only method available. Many cell phones and carriers offer built-in call blocking features or apps that can provide more comprehensive call management solutions. For instance, the National Do Not Call Registry is a federal program that allows you to register your number to limit the telemarketing calls you receive. Additionally, many carriers offer their own versions of call blocking services, which can be accessed through their websites or customer service.
Third-Party Call Blocking Apps
Another alternative to *87 is the use of third-party call blocking apps. These apps, available for both Android and iOS devices, can provide advanced features such as call identification, blocking, and reporting. Some popular call blocking apps include Truecaller, Nomorobo, and Hiya. These apps often have extensive databases of known spam numbers and can automatically block calls from these numbers, providing an additional layer of protection against unwanted calls.
Comparison of Call Blocking Methods
When deciding between using 87, carrier-provided services, or third-party apps, it’s essential to consider the effectiveness, ease of use, and cost of each method. 87 is a straightforward and usually free method provided by your carrier, but its functionality might be limited compared to more comprehensive call blocking services or apps. On the other hand, third-party apps can offer advanced features but might require a subscription or have limitations in their free versions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 87 is a valuable star code that can help you manage unwanted calls by blocking private or anonymous numbers. While it’s an effective tool, it’s part of a broader range of call management solutions available to cell phone users. By understanding how 87 works and exploring alternative methods such as carrier services and third-party apps, you can take significant steps towards protecting your privacy and reducing distractions from unwanted calls. Remember, staying informed about the features and services provided by your carrier and being proactive about call management can greatly enhance your cell phone experience.
What is the purpose of dialing *87 on a cell phone?
Dialing 87 on a cell phone is a feature that allows users to activate call blocking or call screening services. This feature is designed to help users avoid unwanted calls from telemarketers, robocallers, or other unknown numbers. By dialing 87, users can activate a service that will block calls from numbers that are not in their contact list or that have been identified as potential spam numbers. This can be especially useful for users who receive a high volume of unwanted calls and want to reduce the number of interruptions they receive.
The 87 feature is typically provided by the user’s cellular carrier, and the specific features and functionality may vary depending on the carrier and the user’s plan. Some carriers may offer additional features, such as the ability to block calls from specific numbers or to set up a whitelist of approved numbers. Users can usually find more information about the 87 feature and how to use it by contacting their carrier’s customer support or by visiting the carrier’s website. It’s also worth noting that some phones may have additional features or apps that can be used to block unwanted calls, so users may want to explore these options as well.
How do I activate call blocking using *87 on my cell phone?
To activate call blocking using 87 on a cell phone, users typically need to dial 87 and then follow the prompts to activate the service. The exact steps may vary depending on the user’s carrier and plan, but in general, users will need to dial *87 and then press the call button to initiate the call. Once the call is connected, users will typically hear a message or prompt that will guide them through the activation process. This may involve entering a code or following a series of voice prompts to confirm that the user wants to activate the call blocking service.
Once the call blocking service is activated, users may be able to customize their settings to control which types of calls are blocked. For example, users may be able to block calls from all unknown numbers, or they may be able to set up a list of specific numbers that are allowed to call them. Users can usually find more information about how to customize their call blocking settings by contacting their carrier’s customer support or by visiting the carrier’s website. It’s also a good idea for users to review their call blocking settings regularly to ensure that they are not missing important calls from legitimate callers.
Will dialing *87 block all unwanted calls on my cell phone?
Dialing *87 on a cell phone can help to block many unwanted calls, but it may not block all of them. The effectiveness of the call blocking service will depend on the user’s carrier and the specific features of the service. Some carriers may use advanced algorithms and databases to identify and block potential spam calls, while others may rely on user-reported data to identify unwanted numbers. Additionally, some unwanted callers may use spoofing techniques to disguise their numbers, which can make it more difficult for the call blocking service to identify and block the calls.
Despite these limitations, dialing *87 can still be an effective way to reduce the number of unwanted calls that users receive. Users can also take additional steps to protect themselves from unwanted calls, such as registering their number on the National Do Not Call Registry or using third-party call blocking apps. By combining these strategies, users can significantly reduce the number of unwanted calls they receive and help to protect themselves from potential scams and harassment. It’s also a good idea for users to stay informed about the latest developments in call blocking technology and to adjust their strategies as needed to stay ahead of unwanted callers.
Can I use *87 to block calls from specific numbers on my cell phone?
In some cases, users may be able to use 87 to block calls from specific numbers on their cell phone. This will depend on the user’s carrier and the specific features of the call blocking service. Some carriers may allow users to block calls from specific numbers by dialing 87 and then following the prompts to enter the number they want to block. Other carriers may require users to contact customer support or visit the carrier’s website to block specific numbers.
If a user is able to block calls from specific numbers using 87, they will typically need to follow the prompts to enter the number they want to block. This may involve dialing 87 and then entering the number using the keypad, or it may involve speaking the number to a voice prompt. Once the number is blocked, the user should no longer receive calls from that number. However, it’s worth noting that some unwanted callers may use multiple numbers or spoofing techniques to try to get around call blocking, so users may need to take additional steps to protect themselves from unwanted calls.
Will dialing *87 affect my ability to receive important calls on my cell phone?
Dialing *87 on a cell phone should not affect a user’s ability to receive important calls, as long as the user has set up their call blocking settings correctly. Most call blocking services are designed to allow calls from known and trusted numbers, such as numbers in the user’s contact list or numbers that have been identified as legitimate callers. However, users should be careful when setting up their call blocking settings to ensure that they are not blocking important calls from numbers that they want to receive.
To minimize the risk of blocking important calls, users should review their call blocking settings regularly and make sure that they are not blocking calls from numbers that they want to receive. Users can also take steps to ensure that important callers are able to reach them, such as by adding their numbers to a whitelist or by providing them with an alternate contact method. By taking these precautions, users can help to ensure that they are able to receive important calls while still blocking unwanted calls from telemarketers, robocallers, and other unknown numbers.
Can I use *87 to block calls on a landline phone?
In some cases, users may be able to use 87 to block calls on a landline phone, but this will depend on the user’s phone service provider and the specific features of their service. Some landline phone service providers may offer call blocking services that can be activated using 87, while others may require users to contact customer support or visit the provider’s website to block calls. Users should check with their phone service provider to see if *87 is available for their landline phone and to learn more about how to use the feature.
If a user is able to use 87 to block calls on their landline phone, the process will typically be similar to blocking calls on a cell phone. The user will need to dial 87 and then follow the prompts to activate the call blocking service. The user may also be able to customize their call blocking settings to control which types of calls are blocked, such as blocking calls from unknown numbers or setting up a list of approved numbers. Users should review their call blocking settings regularly to ensure that they are not missing important calls from legitimate callers.