How to block a phone number on iPhone

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To block a phone number on an iPhone, navigate to the Phone app, select the contact or recent call you wish to block, and tap 'Block this Caller'. This action prevents the blocked number from contacting you via calls, texts, or FaceTime.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before blocking a phone number on your iPhone, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •An iPhone running iOS 9 or later.
  • •Access to the Phone app and Contacts.
  • •The phone number you wish to block must be saved in your contacts or appear in your recent calls.

Method 1: Blocking from Recent Calls

This method is useful when the number you want to block has recently called you.
  • •Step 1: Open the Phone app by tapping the green phone icon on your home screen.
  • •Step 2: Tap on 'Recents' at the bottom of the screen to view your recent calls.
  • •Step 3: Find the number you wish to block and tap the 'i' (information) icon next to it.
  • •Step 4: Scroll down and tap 'Block this Caller'. Confirm by tapping 'Block Contact'.
  • •Step 5: To verify it worked, the number should now appear in your blocked contacts list, which you can check by going to Settings > Phone > Blocked Contacts.
  • •Step 6: If it doesn't work, ensure that you have the latest iOS version and restart your iPhone.

For iOS 15 and Later

In iOS 15 and later, the interface may slightly differ.
  • •Step 1: Open the Phone app and go to 'Recents'.
  • •Step 2: Tap the 'i' icon next to the number.
  • •Step 3: Tap 'Block this Caller' and confirm.

For iOS 14 and Earlier

The steps remain largely the same but may have slight interface variations.
  • •Step 1: Open the Phone app and go to 'Recents'.
  • •Step 2: Tap the 'i' icon next to the number.
  • •Step 3: Scroll down and tap 'Block this Caller'.

Method 2: Blocking from Contacts

Use this method if the number is saved in your contacts.
  • •Step 1: Open the Contacts app or the Phone app and tap 'Contacts'.
  • •Step 2: Scroll or search for the contact you want to block.
  • •Step 3: Tap on the contact's name to open their details.
  • •Step 4: Scroll down and tap 'Block this Caller'. Confirm by tapping 'Block Contact'.
  • •Step 5: To verify, go to Settings > Phone > Blocked Contacts to see if the number is listed.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while blocking a number, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Unable to block this number' - Solution: Ensure the number is not already blocked or check your iOS version.
  • •Issue: Blocked calls still coming through - Fix: Restart your iPhone and check if the number is still listed under Blocked Contacts.
  • •Problem: Can't find the number to block - Workaround: Manually enter the number in Contacts and then follow the blocking procedure.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your blocking experience with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: None applicable for blocking, but use 'Settings' > 'Phone' for quick access.
  • •Hidden feature: Use 'Do Not Disturb' mode to silence all calls except those from your favorites.
  • •Tip: Regularly review your blocked contacts list to manage unwanted numbers effectively.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For optimal control over your communications, regularly update your blocked contacts and utilize Do Not Disturb settings.