Are you bombarded with unwanted calls on your iPhone? It’s a common frustration, but fortunately, there are several effective ways to block incoming calls on your iPhone, helping you regain control and boost your productivity. Income-partners.net is here to guide you through the best methods for silencing those distractions and focusing on what matters. Let’s explore proven call blocking strategies and discover how you can achieve peace of mind.
1. Why Are You Receiving So Many Unwanted Calls?
Unwanted calls are a widespread issue and are increasing; understanding why they happen can help you manage and mitigate them. The rise in these calls is due to several factors:
- Technological Advancements: Automated dialing systems and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) have made it easier and cheaper for scammers to make numerous calls. According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), these technologies reduce the cost per call, making it economically viable for scammers to target a large number of people.
- Data Breaches: Personal information exposed in data breaches ends up on the dark web, where scammers purchase it to target individuals more effectively. A study by the Identity Theft Resource Center found that data breaches increased significantly in recent years, correlating with a rise in scam calls.
- Spoofing: Scammers often use caller ID spoofing to disguise their real numbers, making the calls appear to come from local or trusted sources. The FCC has reported a surge in spoofing-related complaints, making it harder for individuals to identify and block these calls.
- Lack of Regulation Enforcement: Despite efforts by regulatory bodies like the FCC and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), enforcing regulations against international scammers remains challenging. This lack of effective enforcement allows many scammers to continue their operations with minimal risk.
- Financial Incentives: Scammers are driven by the potential for financial gain, targeting vulnerable individuals with deceptive schemes. According to the FTC, Americans lost billions of dollars to phone scams last year alone, highlighting the lucrative nature of these criminal activities.
1.1 Types of Unwanted Calls
Recognizing the different types of unwanted calls can help you tailor your blocking strategies:
- Robocalls: Automated calls that deliver pre-recorded messages, often advertising products or services, or spreading scams.
- Scam Calls: Calls aimed at defrauding you, such as IRS impersonation, lottery scams, or tech support scams.
- Spam Calls: Unsolicited calls, often from telemarketers or companies trying to sell you something.
- Nuisance Calls: Annoying but not necessarily illegal calls, such as wrong numbers or prank calls.
1.2 The Impact of Unwanted Calls
Unwanted calls can have a significant impact on your daily life and business:
- Distraction and Interruption: Constant ringing can disrupt your focus and productivity, whether you’re working, spending time with family, or trying to relax.
- Anxiety and Stress: The fear of answering a scam call can cause anxiety and stress, especially for vulnerable individuals.
- Financial Loss: Falling victim to a scam call can lead to financial losses, ranging from small amounts to significant sums of money.
- Time Waste: Dealing with unwanted calls takes up valuable time, whether you’re answering and hanging up or reporting the calls.
By understanding why you’re receiving unwanted calls and the impact they have, you can take proactive steps to block them and protect yourself. Let’s explore the various methods to block these calls on your iPhone and how income-partners.net can further assist you in optimizing your business operations.
2. Can You Block Incoming Calls On An iPhone?
Yes, you can block incoming calls on an iPhone. Apple provides several built-in features, and there are also third-party apps available to help you manage and block unwanted calls. Here are the primary methods you can use:
2.1 Using the iPhone’s Built-In Features
iPhones come equipped with native tools to help you block unwanted calls effectively. These features are designed to provide a basic level of call management without needing additional apps.
2.1.1 Blocking Specific Numbers
One of the simplest and most direct ways to block unwanted calls is by manually blocking specific numbers. This method is effective for dealing with persistent offenders. Here’s how to do it:
- Open the Phone App: Tap the phone icon on your iPhone’s home screen.
- Go to Recents: Select the “Recents” tab at the bottom of the screen to view your call history.
- Find the Number: Locate the number you want to block in your call history.
- Tap the Information Icon: Tap the “i” icon next to the number.
Alt text: Tapping the information icon next to a number to access call details on an iPhone
- Scroll Down and Block: Scroll down to the bottom of the screen and tap “Block this Caller.”
Alt text: Selecting the ‘Block this Caller’ option to block a number on an iPhone
- Confirm: Confirm your decision by tapping “Block Contact.”
Once a number is blocked, calls from that number will go directly to voicemail, and you won’t receive notifications. You can manage your blocked contacts in Settings:
- Open Settings: Tap the Settings app on your home screen.
- Scroll Down to Phone: Find and tap “Phone.”
- Tap Blocked Contacts: Select “Blocked Contacts” to see a list of all numbers you’ve blocked.
Alt text: Navigating to Blocked Contacts in iPhone settings to manage blocked numbers
From here, you can unblock numbers or add new ones.
2.1.2 Silence Unknown Callers
The “Silence Unknown Callers” feature sends calls from numbers not in your contacts directly to voicemail. If the caller is legitimate, they can leave a message. To enable this feature:
- Open Settings: Tap the Settings app on your home screen.
- Scroll Down to Phone: Find and tap “Phone.”
- Tap Silence Unknown Callers: Toggle the switch to turn on “Silence Unknown Callers.”
Alt text: Activating the Silence Unknown Callers feature in iPhone settings to filter unknown numbers
This feature is useful for avoiding robocalls and spam, but it may also block calls from new contacts, like potential business partners.
2.1.3 Using Do Not Disturb
The “Do Not Disturb” (DND) feature silences all calls and notifications, but you can customize it to allow calls from specific contacts. This is useful if you want complete silence but still need to be reachable by certain people.
- Open Settings: Tap the Settings app on your home screen.
- Tap Focus: Select “Focus” and then choose “Do Not Disturb.”
- Customize Allowed Calls: Under “Allowed Notifications,” tap “People” and add the contacts you want to allow calls from.
Alt text: Customizing allowed notifications under Do Not Disturb settings on iPhone to permit calls from specific contacts
You can also set DND to turn on automatically at certain times or locations.
2.2 Using Third-Party Apps
In addition to the built-in features, several third-party apps can help you block and manage unwanted calls. These apps often offer advanced features like caller ID, spam detection, and community-based blocking.
2.2.1 Nomorobo
Nomorobo is a popular call-blocking app that uses a database of known robocallers and telemarketers to block unwanted calls. It also offers a service called Nomorobo Max, which provides more advanced features like blocking entire categories of calls.
Alt text: Nomorobo app interface demonstrating robocall blocking features
2.2.2 Truecaller
Truecaller identifies unknown numbers and blocks spam calls. It has a large community-based database of spam numbers and offers features like caller ID, call recording, and SMS filtering.
Alt text: Display of spam identification and blocking capabilities in the Truecaller app on an iPhone
2.2.3 Hiya
Hiya identifies spam and fraud calls and allows you to block them automatically. It also offers features like caller ID and reverse phone lookup.
Alt text: Hiya app interface showing spam and fraud call identification on a mobile screen
2.2.4 Number Shield
Number Shield is an app that allows you to block calls using placeholders in the number, which can be useful if scammers are changing digits in their numbers.
To set up Number Shield:
- Download and Install: Download Number Shield from the App Store and install it on your iPhone.
- Configure Blocking Rules: Set up blocking rules using placeholders like # to block number patterns. For example, 909-###-####.
2.2.5 Robokiller
Robokiller blocks and intercepts spam calls and robocalls. It also provides the option to answer spam calls with a bot, wasting the scammers’ time.
Alt text: Illustration showing Robokiller blocking and intercepting a spam call to enhance user protection
2.3 Reporting Spam Calls
Reporting spam calls helps improve the effectiveness of call-blocking tools and protects others from scams. You can report spam calls to:
- Your Carrier: Most carriers have a process for reporting spam calls. Contact your carrier’s customer support for instructions.
- The Federal Trade Commission (FTC): File a complaint with the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- The FCC: Report violations to the FCC using their online complaint form.
By utilizing the built-in features of your iPhone, third-party apps, and reporting mechanisms, you can significantly reduce the number of unwanted calls you receive. This helps you maintain focus, reduce stress, and protect yourself from potential scams.
3. What Is The Best App To Block Incoming Calls On An iPhone?
Determining the “best” app to block incoming calls on an iPhone depends on your specific needs and preferences. However, a few apps consistently stand out due to their effectiveness and features. Here are some of the top contenders:
3.1 Top Call Blocking Apps for iPhone
3.1.1 Truecaller
Overview: Truecaller is one of the most popular call identification and blocking apps available. It boasts a massive database of known spam numbers, which is continuously updated by its large user base.
Key Features:
- Caller ID: Identifies unknown numbers in real-time.
- Spam Blocking: Automatically blocks known spam and scam calls.
- Community-Based Database: Leverages user reports to identify and block new spam numbers.
- SMS Filtering: Filters out spam SMS messages.
- Call Recording: (Available in some regions) Records incoming and outgoing calls for later review.
Pros:
- Large and accurate database.
- Comprehensive features for call and SMS management.
- User-friendly interface.
Cons:
- Requires access to your contacts to function effectively.
- Some features require a premium subscription.
Why It Stands Out: Truecaller’s extensive database and community-driven approach make it highly effective at identifying and blocking a wide range of unwanted calls.
3.1.2 Nomorobo
Overview: Nomorobo specializes in blocking robocalls and telemarketing calls. It offers a unique approach by using simultaneous ringing to identify and block robocalls before your phone even rings.
Key Features:
- Robocall Blocking: Blocks automated calls using advanced algorithms.
- Simultaneous Ringing: Identifies and blocks robocalls in the cloud before they reach your phone.
- Privacy-Focused: Does not require access to your contacts.
- Nomorobo Max: Offers additional features, including blocking entire categories of calls.
Pros:
- Highly effective at blocking robocalls.
- Privacy-focused design.
- Easy to set up and use.
Cons:
- Primarily focused on robocalls, may not be as effective against other types of spam calls.
- Subscription-based service.
Why It Stands Out: Nomorobo’s focus on robocalls and its innovative use of simultaneous ringing make it a top choice for users plagued by automated calls.
3.1.3 Hiya
Overview: Hiya provides robust call identification and spam blocking features, focusing on identifying and blocking fraud and scam calls.
Key Features:
- Caller ID: Identifies unknown numbers with business names and potential spam labels.
- Spam Blocking: Automatically blocks known spam and fraud calls.
- Reverse Phone Lookup: Allows you to identify unknown numbers.
- Business Caller ID: Helps businesses identify themselves to customers.
Pros:
- Effective at identifying and blocking fraud and scam calls.
- Free version available with essential features.
- Business-focused features.
Cons:
- May not be as comprehensive as Truecaller in terms of community-based spam detection.
- Premium version required for advanced features.
Why It Stands Out: Hiya’s strong focus on fraud and scam call identification makes it a valuable tool for protecting against financial scams and identity theft.
3.2 Comparison Table
| Feature | Truecaller | Nomorobo | Hiya |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caller ID | Yes | No | Yes |
| Spam Blocking | Yes | Yes (Robocalls) | Yes (Fraud & Spam) |
| Database | Community-based, Extensive | Proprietary, Robocall-focused | Business-focused, Fraud-specific |
| SMS Filtering | Yes | No | No |
| Call Recording | Yes (In some regions) | No | No |
| Privacy | Requires contact access | Privacy-focused | Varies by feature |
| Pricing | Free with Premium options | Subscription-based | Free with Premium options |
| Best For | Overall call and SMS management | Blocking robocalls | Identifying fraud and scam calls |
3.3 Considerations When Choosing an App
When selecting a call-blocking app, consider the following factors:
- Effectiveness: How well does the app block unwanted calls? Look for apps with large databases and strong spam detection algorithms.
- Features: Does the app offer additional features like caller ID, SMS filtering, and call recording?
- Privacy: How does the app handle your data? Choose an app that respects your privacy and minimizes data collection.
- Pricing: Is the app free, subscription-based, or freemium? Consider the cost and whether the features justify the price.
- User Reviews: What do other users say about the app? Read reviews and ratings to get an idea of the app’s performance and reliability.
3.4 How Income-Partners.Net Can Help
At income-partners.net, we understand the importance of staying focused and productive. Unwanted calls can disrupt your business and personal life, hindering your ability to connect with valuable partners and opportunities. While call-blocking apps can help manage these interruptions, optimizing your business communications is crucial for long-term success.
We offer resources and strategies to help you:
- Enhance Business Communication: Learn how to improve your communication strategies to build stronger relationships with partners and clients.
- Optimize Time Management: Discover techniques to manage your time effectively, minimize distractions, and focus on income-generating activities.
- Find Strategic Partners: Connect with potential partners who align with your business goals and can help you grow your income.
By combining effective call-blocking strategies with optimized business communication practices, you can create a more productive and successful environment.
Choosing the right app to block incoming calls on your iPhone involves considering your specific needs and preferences. Truecaller, Nomorobo, and Hiya are all excellent options, each with its unique strengths. By evaluating their features, pros, and cons, you can select the app that best fits your needs and helps you regain control of your phone.
4. How To Block A Number On iPhone That Keeps Calling?
Dealing with a number that repeatedly calls can be frustrating. Fortunately, iPhones provide a straightforward method to block these persistent callers. Here’s a detailed guide on how to block a number on your iPhone that keeps calling:
4.1 Blocking from the Phone App (Recents)
This is the most common and direct method for blocking a number after it has called you.
- Open the Phone App: Locate and tap the phone icon on your iPhone’s home screen.
Alt text: Phone app icon on an iPhone, used for making calls and accessing call history
- Go to Recents: Select the “Recents” tab at the bottom of the screen to view your call history. This tab lists all recent incoming and outgoing calls.
Alt text: Accessing the Recents tab in the iPhone Phone app to view call history
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Find the Number: Scroll through your call history to find the number you want to block.
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Tap the Information Icon: Tap the “i” icon (information icon) next to the number. This icon provides details about the call.
Alt text: Locating the information icon next to a call entry for additional details
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Scroll Down and Block: On the contact details screen, scroll down to the bottom of the page. You will see several options.
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Tap “Block this Caller”: Tap the “Block this Caller” option.
Alt text: Selecting the ‘Block this Caller’ option within the contact details on an iPhone
- Confirm: A confirmation pop-up will appear. Tap “Block Contact” to confirm your decision.
Once you block the number, calls from that number will no longer ring on your iPhone. They will be automatically directed to voicemail, and you will not receive any notifications.
4.2 Blocking from the Contacts App
If the number is saved as a contact, you can block it directly from the Contacts app.
- Open the Contacts App: Locate and tap the Contacts app on your iPhone.
Alt text: Contact app icon on iPhone, representing management of phone and email contacts
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Find the Contact: Search for the contact you want to block by scrolling through your contact list or using the search bar.
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Tap the Contact: Select the contact to view their details.
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Scroll Down and Block: Scroll down to the bottom of the contact details screen.
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Tap “Block this Caller”: Tap the “Block this Caller” option.
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Confirm: A confirmation pop-up will appear. Tap “Block Contact” to confirm your decision.
4.3 Managing Blocked Numbers
To view and manage your blocked numbers:
- Open Settings: Tap the Settings app on your home screen.
Alt text: Settings app icon on an iPhone, used to customize device preferences
- Scroll Down to Phone: Find and tap “Phone.”
Alt text: Selection of Phone settings in the iPhone’s main settings menu
- Tap Blocked Contacts: Select “Blocked Contacts” to see a list of all numbers you have blocked.
Alt text: Navigating to Blocked Contacts in iPhone settings to manage blocked numbers
From here, you can:
- Unblock a Number: Swipe left on a number and tap “Unblock” to remove it from the blocked list.
Alt text: Interface showing blocked contact list with the option to swipe and unblock contacts
- Add a Number: Scroll to the bottom and tap “Add New…” to manually enter a number to block.
4.4 Additional Tips for Managing Unwanted Calls
- Silence Unknown Callers: Enable the “Silence Unknown Callers” feature in Settings > Phone to send calls from numbers not in your contacts directly to voicemail.
- Use Third-Party Apps: Consider using call-blocking apps like Truecaller, Nomorobo, or Hiya for advanced spam detection and blocking.
- Report Spam Calls: Report spam calls to your carrier and the FTC to help improve spam detection and prevention efforts.
- Update iOS: Keep your iPhone’s operating system up to date to ensure you have the latest security features and bug fixes.
By following these steps, you can effectively block numbers that keep calling you on your iPhone, reducing interruptions and protecting yourself from potential scams.
5. How To Block A Private Number On iPhone?
Blocking private or unknown numbers on an iPhone can be a bit trickier than blocking regular numbers, as private numbers intentionally hide their caller ID. However, there are several strategies you can use to minimize these calls and maintain your peace of mind.
5.1 Understanding Private Numbers
Private numbers, often displayed as “No Caller ID,” “Unknown,” or “Private Number,” hide the caller’s identity for privacy reasons. While legitimate callers may use this feature, it is often employed by telemarketers, scammers, and robocallers trying to avoid detection.
5.2 Using Silence Unknown Callers
One of the most effective ways to handle private numbers is by using the “Silence Unknown Callers” feature on your iPhone. This feature sends all calls from numbers not in your contacts directly to voicemail.
- Open Settings: Tap the Settings app on your home screen.
- Scroll Down to Phone: Find and tap “Phone.”
- Tap Silence Unknown Callers: Toggle the switch to turn on “Silence Unknown Callers.”
Alt text: Activating the Silence Unknown Callers feature in iPhone settings to filter unknown numbers
Pros:
- Effectively blocks calls from private and unknown numbers.
- Simple and easy to set up.
Cons:
- May block legitimate calls from people not in your contacts, such as new business contacts or service providers.
- Requires callers to leave a voicemail for you to know they called.
5.3 Customizing Do Not Disturb
Another approach is to use the “Do Not Disturb” (DND) feature with customized settings to allow calls only from your contacts.
- Open Settings: Tap the Settings app on your home screen.
- Tap Focus: Select “Focus” and then choose “Do Not Disturb.”
- Customize Allowed Calls: Under “Allowed Notifications,” tap “People” and add the contacts you want to allow calls from.
Alt text: Customizing allowed notifications under Do Not Disturb settings on iPhone to permit calls from specific contacts
Pros:
- Provides complete control over who can reach you.
- Useful for times when you need uninterrupted focus.
Cons:
- May block important calls if you forget to add new contacts to your allowed list.
- Requires manual management of your allowed contacts.
5.4 Third-Party Apps
While iPhones don’t natively allow blocking all private numbers, some third-party apps can help manage these calls more effectively. These apps often use advanced techniques to identify and filter out unwanted calls, even when the caller ID is hidden.
- Truecaller: Truecaller can identify many unknown and private numbers, even if they are not in your contacts. It uses a community-based database to identify and block spam calls.
- Nomorobo: Nomorobo focuses on blocking robocalls, which often come from private or unknown numbers. It uses simultaneous ringing to identify and block these calls before your phone rings.
- Hiya: Hiya identifies spam and fraud calls and allows you to block them automatically. It can also identify some private numbers based on its database.
5.5 Carrier Services
Some mobile carriers offer services that can help block or filter private numbers. Contact your carrier to inquire about available options.
- Verizon Call Filter: Verizon offers a Call Filter app that can detect and filter spam calls, including those from private numbers.
- AT&T Call Protect: AT&T provides the Call Protect app, which helps identify and block potential fraud and spam calls.
- T-Mobile Scam Shield: T-Mobile offers Scam Shield, which includes features like Scam ID, Scam Block, and Caller ID to help protect against unwanted calls.
5.6 Reporting Private Numbers
While you cannot directly block all private numbers, reporting them can help improve spam detection and prevention efforts.
- Report to Your Carrier: Contact your carrier and report the private number. They may be able to investigate and take action.
- File a Complaint with the FTC: Report the call to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
5.7 Balancing Privacy and Accessibility
When blocking private numbers, it’s important to balance your desire for privacy with the need to be accessible. Consider the potential impact on your business and personal relationships.
- Inform Contacts: Let your contacts know that you have call-blocking measures in place and ask them to leave a voicemail if they are not in your contacts.
- Check Voicemail Regularly: Regularly check your voicemail to ensure you don’t miss important calls from unknown numbers.
- Adjust Settings: Adjust your call-blocking settings based on your needs and circumstances.
By using a combination of these strategies, you can effectively manage and minimize unwanted calls from private numbers on your iPhone, helping you stay focused and productive.
6. How To Unblock A Number On iPhone?
If you’ve previously blocked a number on your iPhone and now want to receive calls from that number again, unblocking it is a simple process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to unblock a number on your iPhone:
6.1 Accessing Blocked Contacts
The first step is to access the list of numbers you have blocked on your iPhone.
- Open Settings: Locate and tap the Settings app on your iPhone’s home screen.
Alt text: Settings app icon on an iPhone, used to customize device preferences
- Scroll Down to Phone: Scroll down the list of settings options until you find “Phone.” Tap “Phone” to open the phone settings.
Alt text: Selection of Phone settings in the iPhone’s main settings menu
- Tap Blocked Contacts: In the Phone settings, look for “Blocked Contacts.” Tap “Blocked Contacts” to view a list of all the numbers you have blocked.
Alt text: Navigating to Blocked Contacts in iPhone settings to manage blocked numbers
6.2 Unblocking a Number
Once you have accessed the list of blocked contacts, you can proceed to unblock the specific number you want to receive calls from again.
- Find the Number: Scroll through the list of blocked numbers until you find the number you want to unblock.
- Swipe Left: Swipe left on the number. A red “Unblock” button will appear.
Alt text: Interface showing blocked contact list with the option to swipe and unblock contacts
- Tap Unblock: Tap the red “Unblock” button. The number will be removed from the blocked list, and you will now be able to receive calls and messages from that number again.
6.3 Alternative Method: Edit Blocked Contacts
Another way to unblock a number is by using the “Edit” option in the Blocked Contacts list.
- Access Blocked Contacts: Follow the steps in Section 6.1 to access the Blocked Contacts list.
- Tap Edit: In the upper-right corner of the screen, tap the “Edit” button.
Alt text: Edit option available in Blocked Contacts to facilitate multiple unblocks simultaneously
- Tap the Delete Icon: A red circle with a white minus sign will appear next to each blocked number. Tap the red circle next to the number you want to unblock.
Alt text: Selection of the delete icon to remove specific blocked contacts
- Tap Unblock: Tap the “Unblock” button that appears next to the number.
- Tap Done: Once you have unblocked all the numbers you want to unblock, tap “Done” in the upper-right corner of the screen to save your changes.
6.4 Verifying the Number is Unblocked
After unblocking the number, it’s a good idea to verify that the number is indeed unblocked.
- Check the Blocked Contacts List: Return to the Blocked Contacts list and ensure that the number is no longer present.
- Ask the Contact to Call: If possible, ask the person whose number you unblocked to call you to confirm that you can receive their calls.
6.5 What to Do If You Still Can’t Receive Calls
If you have unblocked the number and are still not receiving calls from that number, there might be other issues at play.
- Check for Other Blocking Methods: Ensure that you haven’t blocked the number through a third-party app or carrier service.
- Check the Contact’s Settings: Ask the person to check their phone settings to ensure they haven’t accidentally blocked your number.
- Restart Your iPhone: Sometimes, simply restarting your iPhone can resolve connectivity issues.
- Contact Your Carrier: If the problem persists, contact your mobile carrier for assistance.
6.6 How Income-Partners.Net Can Help
At income-partners.net, we understand that effective communication is essential for building strong partnerships and generating income. While managing blocked numbers on your iPhone is a useful tool, it’s just one aspect of successful business communication.
We offer resources and strategies to help you:
- Improve Communication Skills: Learn how to communicate effectively with potential partners and clients.
- Build Strong Relationships: Discover techniques to build and maintain strong, mutually beneficial relationships.
- Maximize Business Opportunities: Find and capitalize on opportunities to grow your income and expand your business.
By combining effective call management with strong business communication practices, you can create a more productive and successful environment for yourself and your partners.
Unblocking a number on your iPhone is a straightforward process that can be completed in just a few steps. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily manage your blocked contacts and ensure that you are receiving calls from the people who matter most to you.
7. How To Block A Contact On iPhone?
Blocking a contact on your iPhone is a simple and effective way to stop unwanted calls, messages, and FaceTime requests from a specific person. Here’s a detailed guide
