Black list numbers

Hello
I am a newbie in programming Arduino and I would like to ask you some questions.

  • Since the GSM Shield for Arduino is no longer purchasable from the official store, which compatible board would you suggest?
  • It is possible to do a black list? In my project, the board must automatically answer only to one number set by default and ignore other messages coming from different mobile numbers. It is possible to do that?
  • For my project I will need tu use a digital input in Arduino. Does the Shield occupies all the available pins or I can use someone?

Thank you