How to Block Someone on Gmail?

Gmail is one of the most popular email services, used by millions for personal and professional communication. However, sometimes you may receive unwanted emails from spammers, harassers, or people you no longer wish to interact with. Fortunately, Gmail provides an easy way to block someone, ensuring their emails no longer reach your inbox.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to block someone on Gmail using different methods, including blocking via email, filtering messages, and unblocking if needed.

Why Should You Block Someone on Gmail?

Blocking someone on Gmail can help you:

  • Avoid spam and phishing emails
  • Stop harassment or unwanted messages
  • Keep your inbox organized and clutter-free
  • Prevent distractions from irrelevant senders

Now, let’s explore the steps to block someone on Gmail.

Method 1: Blocking Someone Directly from an Email

This is the easiest way to block a sender if you’ve received an email from them.

Steps to Block Someone on Gmail from an Email:

  1. Open Gmail and log in to your account.
  2. Locate an email from the sender you want to block.
  3. Click the three-dot menu (⋮) in the top-right corner of the email.
  4. Select "Block [sender’s name]."
  5. Confirm by clicking "Block" in the pop-up window.

Once blocked, future emails from this sender will go directly to the Spam folder.

Method 2: Blocking Someone Using Gmail Settings

If you haven’t received an email from the sender but still want to block them, you can manually add them to your blocked list.

Steps to Manually Block Someone in Gmail Settings:

  1. Open Gmail and click the gear icon (⚙️) in the top-right corner.
  2. Select "See all settings."
  3. Go to the "Filters and Blocked Addresses" tab.
  4. Click "Create a new filter."
  5. Enter the email address you want to block in the "From" field.
  6. Click "Create filter."
  7. Check the box for "Delete it" or "Skip the Inbox (Archive it)."
  8. Click "Create filter" again to confirm.

Now, emails from this address will be automatically filtered out.

Method 3: Using Gmail’s Unsubscribe Feature for Newsletters

If the unwanted emails are from newsletters or subscriptions, you can unsubscribe instead of blocking.

Steps to Unsubscribe in Gmail:

  1. Open an email from the sender.
  2. Next to the sender’s name, click "Unsubscribe" or "Change preferences."
  3. Follow the prompts to stop receiving emails.

This is a better option for legitimate senders you no longer wish to hear from.

How to Unblock Someone on Gmail

Changed your mind? Here’s how to unblock someone on Gmail:

  1. Go to Gmail Settings (⚙️ > "See all settings").
  2. Navigate to "Filters and Blocked Addresses."
  3. Find the blocked email address in the list.
  4. Click "Unblock" or "Remove" next to the address.

The sender will now be able to email you again.

Additional Tips to Manage Unwanted Emails in Gmail

  • Report spam: Click the "Report spam" button to help Gmail filter similar emails.
  • Use filters: Automatically sort emails from specific senders into folders or trash.
  • Enable two-factor authentication: Prevent unauthorized access to your account.

FAQs About Blocking Someone on Gmail

1. What happens when you block someone on Gmail?

Blocked senders’ emails go to Spam, and you won’t receive notifications.

2. Does blocking someone notify them?

No, Gmail does not notify the blocked person.

3. Can a blocked sender still email me?

Yes, but their emails will be automatically sent to Spam.

4. How many people can I block on Gmail?

Gmail does not have a strict limit, but excessive blocking may affect performance.

5. Can I block emails from a domain (e.g., @example.com?

Yes, create a filter with "*@example.com" in the "From" field.

Conclusion

Blocking someone on Gmail is a simple yet powerful way to control who can contact you. Whether you’re dealing with spam, harassment, or unwanted newsletters, Gmail provides multiple ways to block and filter emails effectively.

By following the steps above, you can keep your inbox clean and secure. If you ever change your mind, unblocking is just as easy.

Have you ever had to block someone on Gmail? Share your experience in the comments!