How to block spam calls on iPhone

Updated 2026-05-02

iOS has solid built-in tools for cutting spam calls — no third-party app required. Combine them with your network's free filtering for the best result.

Silence Unknown Callers

Settings → Apps → Phone → Silence Unknown Callers. Calls from numbers not in your contacts or recent outgoing calls go straight to voicemail. The trade-off: legitimate calls from delivery drivers, doctors, or new contacts are also silenced.

Block individual numbers

In the Phone app, tap the 'i' next to a number → Block this Caller. Blocked numbers go nowhere — no ring, no voicemail, no notification.

Network-level filters

Enable your network's free spam protection: BT Call Protect, EE Call Filter, Vodafone Call Protect, Sky Mobile Block, O2 Call Defence. These run on the network before the call ever reaches your phone.

What to do

  1. Turn on 'Silence Unknown Callers' if you can tolerate missing some new contacts.
  2. Block repeat offenders individually.
  3. Activate your network's spam filter.
  4. Report numbers to 7726 and WhoCalledMe.ai.

Frequently asked questions

Will Silence Unknown Callers block my GP?

If your GP withholds their number, yes — those calls go to voicemail. Save your GP's main switchboard as a contact to be safe.