end user blocking numbers

[mark1301]

Now that the spammers are more frequent I'm looking for a way for the end users to be able to 'block' numbers. I've found many threads about creating rules to 'forward' those numbers to VM or to an extension that isn't actually there and although those are helpful - I'm trying to have the end users as self sufficient as possible. We have a mixture of browser (browser add in) users and some 'full' clients installed. Has anyone found a method or option to be able have the end users do this w/o 'admin' help?

thanks in advance..

 

[leejor]

Even if people are able to add number to a blacklist themselves, the problem is going to be that they will still get, at least one call until that number is blocked. Spammers know that people will recognize the same number after a call, and since most (all?) numbers they use, are fabricated, they constantly change them to get you to answer again.

It is no different to how hackers constantly change their IP address, to get around your firewall blocking them, a second time.

One of the best methods to block any call placed by a computer is to initially connect it it to an IVR, give a legitimate caller a short, informative message, and then require the caller to make a selection, before the call proceeds. Best to be proactive rather than reactive.

 

[Shobosh]

Thanks #leejor

However, please forgive me but I don't think #mark1301 question has been answered. I have a customer with the same issue. He wants to block his own numbers on his extension without having to bother the sysadmin.

Any thoughts or suggestions?

 

[YiannisH_3CX]

Hi @Shobosh

The only way to have a user add a number into the number blacklist is by giving them access to the management console which is not recommended.
You could possibly create a custom solution using the call flow designer and the 3CX API where a user can add a number manually into the system. Perhaps @VoIPTools can assist with that

 

[mark1301]

Thanks #leejor

However, please forgive me but I don't think #mark1301 question has been answered. I have a customer with the same issue. He wants to block his own numbers on his extension without having to bother the sysadmin.

Any thoughts or suggestions?

You are correct. It appears that 3CX doesn't permit 'end users' to have the ability to block (spam/fake) calls from their side - or that I've found. This seems like a 'major issue' to me and hopefully someone will find a solution or that option will be provided in future releases. Having to create 'fake routes' to allow someone to determine/choose a different #, etc - does work, but shouldn't be needed.

 

[leejor]

I can foresee some potential problems, if an end user were allowed to block numbers just for them. Many SPAM callers call sequentially, meaning any other DIDs, in a range, are more than likely to get a call, in the next while.

If you allowed them the ability to block numbers to all users, if the wrong number were blocked, either by mistake, or on purpose. ("I'm tired of my ex-wife/husband/partner/bill collector calling me at work, I'm going to block them", then putting in the wrong number, one wrong digit digit).

It is better to have one person keeping track of what numbers are blacklisted. If issues arise (a legitimate caller is unable to get through), they are the first contacted, to resolve the issue.

 

[VoIPTools]

I tend to agree with @leejor, but l can provide a solution and let you decide. There is a 3CX Call Control API for adding numbers to the black list. We have a REST API that can invoke this API. It would not be difficult to create a web form for maintaining the list without having to give people access to the 3CX management console.