Block a number that called you
- Open the Phone app and tap Recents.
- Tap the number you want to block, or tap the small i in a circle next to it.
- Scroll down and tap Block Caller. On some older versions it says Block this Caller.
- Tap Block Contact to confirm.
Block a number that texted you
If the text is a scam, report it before you block. Look for Report Junk or Report Spam under the message, or forward it to 7726.
- Open Messages and open the conversation.
- Tap the name or number at the very top of the screen.
- Scroll down and tap Block Caller. On older versions you may need to tap Info first.
- Confirm, then go back and delete the conversation.
What blocking does
- Calls from that number do not ring. They can still leave a voicemail, which goes to a Blocked Messages list at the bottom of your voicemail.
- Texts and iMessages from that number are not delivered to you.
- FaceTime calls from that number are blocked too.
- The other person is not sent a notice that you blocked them.
See or undo your blocked list
On iOS 18, open Settings, then Apps, then Phone, then Blocked Contacts. On iOS 26 the same list is also under Settings, then Privacy & Security, then Blocked Contacts. Tap Edit to remove someone.
Why scammers keep getting through
Scammers switch numbers all the time, so blocking one number will not stop a scam ring. Blocking is still worth doing, because it stops that number from trying again. To cut down on calls from strangers in general, turn on the setting that silences or screens unknown callers.
Stuck on a step?
Text Uncle at +1 208 214 0093 and tell him what you see on your screen. He walks you through it in plain words, one step at a time.
Read next
- Silence unknown callers on iPhone
- Report spam texts to 7726
- Block a number on Android
- Wrong number text
- See all guides
Written by the Textuncle team. Last updated October 3, 2026.
Text Uncle