How to Block Spam Calls on an iPhone
Tired of robocalls and scam calls? Here's how to silence unknown callers, block specific numbers, and turn on scam protection on your iPhone.
At a Glance
Turn on Silence Unknown Callers
~15sBlock a specific number
~15sEnable carrier spam protection
~15sReport spam calls to the FTC
~15sYou Did It!
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Spam calls — robocalls, scam attempts, and unwanted sales calls — are one of the most frustrating parts of owning a phone. Americans receive billions of spam calls every year. The good news is that your iPhone has several built-in tools to a lot reduce them.
Option 1: Silence Unknown Callers (recommended)
This setting sends any call from a number that's not in your contacts straight to voicemail — without your phone ever ringing.
To turn it on: Go to Settings → Phone → Silence Unknown Callers → toggle it on (green).
Important: You'll still see missed calls from unknown numbers in your Recent Calls list. And they can still leave a voicemail. Only people in your contacts will cause your phone to ring.
Option 2: Block a specific number
After a spam call: 1. Open the Phone app and tap "Recents." 2. Find the number that called you. 3. Tap the blue (i) information icon next to it. 4. Scroll down and tap "Block this Caller." 5. Confirm by tapping "Block Contact."
That number can no longer call you, text you, or FaceTime you.
Option 3: Turn on carrier spam protection
Most phone carriers offer free spam call protection: - AT&T: Download the free "ActiveArmor" app (previously "Call Protect") - T-Mobile: The "Scam Shield" app is free for all T-Mobile customers - Verizon: The "Call Filter" app — the basic version is free - Google Fi: Spam protection is automatic
Option 4: Use the free Nomorobo app
Nomorobo is a free service available for some carriers. It automatically blocks known robocall numbers before your phone rings. Visit nomorobo.com to check if your carrier is supported.
Quick Tip:
Never call back an unknown number you don't recognize, especially if they left no message. Scammers use "one-ring" calls to get you to call a premium-rate number, resulting in charges on your phone bill.
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