How to Block Scam Calls on iPhone — Step-by-Step Guide for 2026
If you are getting robocalls, spoofed numbers, and scam calls on your iPhone, there are built-in features and free tools that can stop most of them. This step-by-step guide shows you how to enable Silence Unknown Callers, set up call screening, and use carrier tools to block scam calls without missing important ones.
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Built-In iPhone Features
Block Most Scam Calls in Under 5 Minutes
Your iPhone has built-in features that can block most scam calls without any additional apps. This guide shows you how to set them up.
Note: This guide covers phone scams, not email. If you received a suspicious email, forward it to check@scam.support for a free risk assessment. For phone scams, report to the FTC — see all reporting agencies.
Step 1: Enable Silence Unknown Callers
This feature sends calls from numbers not in your contacts, recent outgoing calls, or Siri suggestions straight to voicemail.
- Open Settings
- Scroll down to Phone
- Tap Silence Unknown Callers
- Toggle it on
Legitimate callers will leave a voicemail. Robocallers rarely do.
Step 2: Enable Your Carrier's Spam Filter
Most US carriers offer free call-blocking tools:
- T-Mobile/Sprint: Scam Shield (free tier available)
- AT&T: ActiveArmor (free tier available)
- Verizon: Call Filter (free tier available)
Download your carrier's app from the App Store and activate the free spam-blocking features.
Step 3: Block Specific Numbers
If you receive a scam call from a specific number:
- Open the Phone app
- Go to Recents
- Tap the i icon next to the number
- Scroll down and tap Block this Caller
Step 4: Report Spam Calls
When you receive a call flagged as potential spam, your iPhone may show a "Spam" label. After the call, you can report it:
- Go to Recents in the Phone app
- Tap the i next to the spam call
- Scroll down and tap Block this Caller
Tips for Seniors
- Silence Unknown Callers is the single most effective setting — enable it first
- Ask a family member to add important contacts (doctor, pharmacy, bank) to the phone's contact list so their calls always come through
- Check voicemail regularly since legitimate callers will leave messages
- Consider setting up a family code word for emergency calls
What To Do If You Get a Scam Call
What To Do
- Do not answer calls from unknown numbers — let them go to voicemail
- Never press buttons when a robocall asks you to
- Never provide personal information to an unsolicited caller
- Block the number after receiving a scam call
- Report persistent scam calls to the FTC
Report Scam Calls
Sources
- Apple Support — Manage unknown callers on iPhone
- FTC Consumer Advice — Unwanted Calls, Emails, and Texts