How to Block Someone on iPhone: A Comprehensive Guide
Blocking someone on your iPhone prevents them from contacting you through various Apple services. This guide will walk you through the process, addressing common questions and scenarios. Whether it's a persistent text message, unwanted calls, or bothersome FaceTime requests, knowing how to block contacts is crucial for maintaining your privacy and peace of mind.
How to Block a Phone Number
This is the most common reason people seek to block someone on their iPhone. Blocking a number prevents that contact from reaching you via phone calls, text messages (iMessages), and FaceTime.
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Open the Phone app: Locate the green phone icon on your home screen.
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Find the Recent Calls Tab: Tap "Recents" at the bottom of the screen.
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Select the Number: Find the number you wish to block in your recent calls list.
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Access the Contact Info: Tap the "i" icon (information) next to the phone number.
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Block the Contact: Scroll down and tap "Block this Caller." A confirmation will appear. Tap "Block Contact" again to confirm your choice.
Alternatively, you can block a number directly from Messages:
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Open the Messages app: Locate the green speech bubble icon on your home screen.
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Select the Conversation: Open the conversation with the number you want to block.
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Access the Contact Info: Tap the contact's name at the top of the screen.
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Block the Contact: Scroll down and tap "Block this Caller." Confirm by tapping "Block Contact."
How to Block a Contact from Your Contacts List
If the number you want to block is already saved in your contacts, you can block them directly from their contact card.
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Open the Contacts app: Locate the icon with the address book.
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Select the Contact: Find the contact you want to block and tap on their name.
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Access the Contact Info: You'll be taken to their contact card.
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Block the Contact: Scroll down and tap "Block this Caller." Confirm by tapping "Block Contact."
How to Unblock Someone
If you change your mind, you can easily unblock a contact.
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Open the Settings app: Locate the grey icon with gears.
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Go to Phone: Tap on "Phone."
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Select Blocked Contacts: Tap on "Blocked Contacts."
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Unblock the Contact: Find the contact you wish to unblock and swipe left on their name. Tap "Unblock."
What Happens When You Block Someone?
When you block someone, they won't be able to:
- Call you: Their calls will go straight to voicemail.
- Send you text messages: Their messages will not be delivered.
- Reach you via FaceTime: Their FaceTime calls will not connect.
However, blocking someone doesn't erase their existing messages or call history. You can still see their previous communications from your call history and message threads.
Can Blocked Numbers Still Leave Voicemails?
No, blocked numbers cannot leave voicemails. Their calls will be automatically sent to voicemail without ringing your phone.
How to Block Someone on Specific Apps
While the above methods block across multiple Apple services, some individual apps offer their own blocking mechanisms. For example, social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook have their own blocking features within their app settings. Consult the individual app's help resources for specific instructions.
By following these steps, you can effectively manage unwanted contact and maintain control over your communication preferences on your iPhone. Remember to always prioritize your safety and well-being online.
