How To Block Unknown Number From Iphone

How to Block Unknown Numbers From Your iPhone: A Complete Guide

Are you tired of unwanted calls from unknown numbers clogging up your iPhone? You're not alone! Many iPhone users grapple with this issue, dealing with spam calls, telemarketers, and other annoying interruptions. Fortunately, Apple offers several effective methods to block these unknown numbers and regain control of your phone. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough of these methods.

Understanding iPhone's Blocking Capabilities

Before we dive into the specific steps, it's important to understand how iPhone handles blocking. When you block a number, it prevents that number from contacting you through calls, texts (iMessages), and FaceTime. The blocked caller will still be able to leave a voicemail, but you won't receive a notification.

Method 1: Blocking Numbers Directly From Recent Calls

This is the simplest and quickest method for blocking a number you've already received a call from.

Steps:

1. Open the Phone app: Locate and tap the green Phone icon on your home screen.
2. Go to Recents: Tap the "Recents" tab at the bottom of the screen. This displays a list of your recent calls.
3. Locate the Unknown Number: Find the number you wish to block.
4. Tap the "i" Icon: To the right of the unknown number, you'll see a small "i" icon within a circle. Tap this icon.
5. Block this Caller: Scroll down the information screen until you find the "Block this Caller" option. Tap it.
6. Confirm: A pop-up will ask you to confirm. Tap "Block Contact."

Method 2: Blocking Numbers From Messages

If the unwanted contact reached you via iMessage, you can block them directly from your Messages app.

Steps:

1. Open the Messages app: Locate the green Messages icon on your home screen and tap it.
2. Open the Conversation: Find the conversation with the unknown number you want to block.
3. Tap the "Info" Button: This is typically located in the top-right corner of the screen. It might appear as an "i" within a circle.
4. Block this Contact: Scroll down and tap "Block this Contact."
5. Confirm: Confirm your choice to block the number.

Method 3: Blocking Numbers From Contacts

If you have the unknown number saved in your contacts, you can block them from there as well.

Steps:

1. Open the Contacts app: Find the Contacts app icon on your home screen.
2. Locate the Contact: Find the contact with the unknown number you wish to block.
3. Tap the Contact: Tap to open the contact's details.
4. Scroll to Edit: Tap "Edit" in the top right corner.
5. Block this Contact: Scroll down to find the "Block this Contact" option and tap on it. This option might be under a section labelled 'More'.
6. Confirm: Confirm the blocking action.

Method 4: Utilizing "Silence Unknown Callers" (iOS 13 and later)

This setting is particularly useful for preventing calls from numbers not in your contacts list.

Steps:

1. Open the Settings app: Locate the grey icon with gears and tap it.
2. Tap Phone: Scroll down and tap on "Phone."
3. Silence Unknown Callers: Toggle the switch next to "Silence Unknown Callers" to the ON position. This will send unknown numbers directly to voicemail.

Important Note: This feature won't block the calls entirely. You will not see any notifications and the calls will go straight to voicemail. However, you can still review the missed calls from the Phone app's Recents tab.

Preventing Future Unknown Calls

While blocking helps manage current issues, proactive steps can minimize future unwanted calls. Avoid sharing your number publicly on websites or social media platforms. Consider using call-screening apps that filter calls before they reach your phone.

This comprehensive guide should help you effectively block unknown numbers and maintain peace on your iPhone. Remember to choose the method most convenient for your situation. With a little proactive effort, you can significantly reduce the disruption caused by unwanted calls.