How to stop spam calls on iPhone

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting.

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

Quick Answer

To stop spam calls on your iPhone, you can enable the 'Silence Unknown Callers' feature, use third-party call blocking apps, or manually block specific numbers. These methods help reduce unwanted interruptions from spam and robocalls.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you start, ensure you have the following:
  • •An iPhone running iOS 13 or later for the latest features.
  • •Access to the Settings app on your iPhone.
  • •A stable internet connection if you plan to download third-party apps.
  • •Backup your contacts if you plan to block numbers to avoid accidental loss.

Method 1: Enable Silence Unknown Callers

This method is effective for filtering out calls from numbers not saved in your contacts.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app on your iPhone.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and tap on 'Phone'.
  • •Step 3: Find and tap on 'Silence Unknown Callers'.
  • •Step 4: Toggle the switch to turn it ON (the switch will turn green).
  • •Step 5: To verify, you will see a message indicating that calls from unknown numbers will be silenced and sent to voicemail.
  • •Step 6: If it doesn't work, ensure your iPhone is updated to the latest iOS version by going to 'Settings' > 'General' > 'Software Update'.

For iOS 14 and Later

iOS 14 introduced more robust features for managing calls.
  • •Step 1: Follow the steps above to access 'Silence Unknown Callers'.
  • •Step 2: Additionally, consider enabling 'Call Blocking & Identification' under 'Phone' settings to allow third-party apps to filter calls.

For iOS 13

iOS 13 has similar steps but lacks some advanced features.
  • •Step 1: Access 'Settings' > 'Phone' > 'Silence Unknown Callers'.
  • •Step 2: Note that some features may not be available, and consider updating to a newer version.

Method 2: Use Third-Party Call Blocking Apps

Using third-party apps can provide additional features and more aggressive spam filtering.
  • •Step 1: Open the App Store on your iPhone.
  • •Step 2: Search for 'call blocker' or specific apps like 'Truecaller' or 'Hiya'.
  • •Step 3: Download and install your chosen app.
  • •Step 4: Open the app and follow the setup instructions to grant necessary permissions.
  • •Step 5: Go to 'Settings' > 'Phone' > 'Call Blocking & Identification'.
  • •Step 6: Enable the toggle for the installed app to allow it to filter calls.
  • •Step 7: Verify that the app is functioning by checking its call log for blocked numbers.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while trying to stop spam calls, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Silence Unknown Callers' not working - Solution: Ensure that your iPhone is updated to the latest iOS version and that you have not blocked all calls.
  • •Issue: Third-party app not blocking calls - Fix: Check app permissions in 'Settings' > 'Privacy' > 'Call Blocking & Identification'.
  • •Problem: Receiving spam calls despite blocking - Workaround: Regularly update your contact list and consider reporting spam numbers to your carrier.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some additional tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Use 'Siri' to quickly block a number by saying, 'Block this number'.
  • •Command line: Not applicable for iPhone, but consider using 'Find My iPhone' to locate your device if you miss a call.
  • •Hidden feature: Access 'Do Not Disturb' mode to silence all calls except those from your favorites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Utilizing a combination of built-in features and third-party apps provides the best defense against spam calls.