Welcome, Today we’ll be discussing On How to Block Loan App Calls on Your iPhone and Android Phones.
In recent years, loan apps have become increasingly popular, especially in Nigeria. Loan apps provide quick and easy access to loans right from your smartphone. However, some loan apps engage in aggressive collection tactics, like constantly calling borrowers to repay loans. This can be annoying and disruptive if you’re receiving multiple calls every day.
Thankfully, both iPhones and Android phones allow you to block calls from specific numbers or apps. This prevents loan apps from contacting you directly. In this guide, we’ll explain the steps to block loan app calls on your iPhone and Android device.
Benefits of Blocking Loan App Calls
Here are some benefits of blocking loan app calls:
- Avoid harassment from aggressive collections
- Prevent disruptions from frequent loan app calls
- Take control of your smartphone experience
- Reduce stress and anxiety from loan app harassment
- Focus on repaying your loan on your own terms
Tips for Blocking Loan App Calls
- Identify the loan app numbers that are calling you frequently
- Use native call blocking features on your iPhone or Android
- Install third party call blocking apps for more advanced options
- Block calls but still allow SMS – this way you can receive payment reminders
- Temporarily block numbers during important events/meetings
- Educate yourself on loan app regulations to avoid illegal collection practices
How to Block Calls on iPhone
Here are the steps to block calls from loan apps on your iPhone:
- Open the Phone app and select the Recents tab
- Tap the information icon “i” next to a loan app number
- Scroll down and tap “Block this Caller”
- Confirm by tapping “Block Contact”
This will prevent all calls from that number. To block calls from multiple loan app numbers:
- Go to Settings > Phone > Call Blocking & Identification
- Tap “Block Contacts”
- Add loan app numbers you want to block
You can also enable Silence Unknown Callers in iOS 15 to auto block calls from numbers not in your contacts.
How to Block Calls on Android
Here are the steps to block loan app calls on Android devices:
- Open the Phone app and tap the Recents tab
- Tap the number you want to block
- Tap the vertical 3 dots icon in the top right
- Select “Block number”
This will block all calls and texts from that number. You can also block numbers by:
- Going to Settings > Call Blocking
- Tapping “Block numbers”
- Entering loan app numbers you want to block
Some Android devices have a “Blocked numbers” option directly in the Phone app – check your device guide for details.
Using Third Party Call Blocking Apps
For more advanced call blocking, you can use third party apps like Truecaller or WhosCall. These apps maintain a spam list and let you easily block numbers. Some key features include:
- Automatically blocking known spam/scam numbers
- Community spam number list
- Ability to report unknown numbers
- Reverse phone number lookup
- Blocking all calls from non-contacts
The specific blocking steps will vary based on the app, but they provide more flexibility than just using the native call blocking tools.
Important Facts About Loan Apps in Nigeria
- Loan apps exploded in popularity in Nigeria around 2016-2017 due to increased smartphone penetration. They provide quick loans with minimal paperwork.
- Many loan apps are not regulated by the central bank of Nigeria. This leads to high interest rates and few consumer protections.
- Loan apps have come under scrutiny for questionable collection tactics, like shaming borrowers and harassment. Officials have started evaluating regulations.
- Leading loan app players in Nigeria include Sokoloan, OKash, Paylater, Branch, Palmcredit, and QuickCheck.
- Loans are risky if not managed properly. Only take necessary amounts and have a repayment plan.
FAQs on How to Block Loan App Calls on Your iPhone and Android Phones
Here are some answers to FAQS On How to Block Loan App Calls on Your iPhone and Android Phones.
Is it legal for loan apps to constantly call me?
No, loan apps are not permitted to harass borrowers with excessive calls. If you ask them to stop calling, they are legally obligated to comply. Continued harassment is unlawful.
Will I still get text reminders if I block loan app calls?
Yes, call blocking generally only applies to phone calls and voicemails. You will still receive SMS reminders and notifications if you only block calls but not texts.
What happens if I block a loan app number that calls me?
If you block a loan app’s number, your phone will automatically reject any incoming calls from that number. The calls will go directly to voicemail.
Can I block a number temporarily?
Yes, most call blocking features allow you to block numbers temporarily or indefinitely. Temporary blocking is useful for blocking disruptive calls during certain times or events.
What are signs of loan app harassment?
Frequent calls, insults, public shaming, calling contacts, and threats for repayment are signs of unlawful loan app harassment. Reach out to consumer protection agencies in such cases.
What are the risks of using loan apps?
Risks include high interest rates, opaque terms and conditions, unlawful collections practices, and potential fraud or data privacy issues. Borrow responsibly after reading terms.
Can loan apps take legal action if I block their calls?
No, you have the right to block any calls that are disruptive or aggravating. Loan apps cannot take legal recourse just because you blocked their calls.
How do I report a loan app for unethical practices?
Reach out to your state consumer protection agency or the central bank to report loan apps that engage in unlawful practices. Provide documentation and details to back up your case.
What are some alternatives to risky loan apps?
Alternatives include credit unions, peer-to-peer lending, bank personal loans, payment plans from service providers, and assistance from community groups.
How can I reduce loan app calls without blocking numbers?
Set up payment reminders so you never miss payments, communicate with the lender, avoid taking new loans until current ones are repaid, and use call screening features on your smartphone.
Is it possible to negotiate with loan apps on repayment terms?
Yes, reputable loan apps are often willing to negotiate flexible repayment arrangements, especially if you have a hardship. Approach them politely and explain your situation. Have a plan to repay and request adjustments.
Can loan apps charge me for blocking their numbers?
No, you have complete discretion to block numbers from your device. Loan apps cannot penalize or charge you anything extra for choosing to block calls.
What are the pros and cons of using a third party call blocker?
Pros include robust blocking options and community reporting. Cons are potential cost, battery drain, and privacy concerns from providing access to contacts and call data.
Will I keep getting billed if I block a loan app’s calls?
Yes, blocking calls has no impact on your obligation to repay the loan as per the agreed terms. You will continue being billed as normal unless you repay the loan.
Can loan apps take me to court if I only block their calls?
No, call blocking alone is not legal grounds for any court action. You have not defaulted just by blocking calls – as long as you continue repayment.
Conclusion
Excessive loan app calls can be intrusive but thankfully iOS and Android provide call blocking tools to stop this nuisance. Make use of native blocking features or third party apps to take control of your smartphone experience. But remember to still make loan repayments on time even after blocking numbers. With the right approach, you can avoid loan app harassment without defaulting on the loan itself.
After reading this blog you know How to Block Loan App Calls on Your iPhone and Android Phones.
