Digital Magazine – Spam calls have become an unavoidable nuisance for many smartphone users. They not only disrupt your day but can also expose you to scams and security risks. Apple has acknowledged the issue, even preparing to launch a dedicated Call Screening feature in iOS 26. But if your iPhone doesn’t support the update—or if you don’t want to wait—there are practical solutions you can use right now.
This guide explores two reliable methods to block spam calls on iPhone, ensuring you regain control over your incoming calls.
Why Spam Calls Are a Growing Problem
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the United States reports millions of unwanted calls every year, ranging from robocalls to impersonation scams. With spammers constantly rotating phone numbers, blocking individual callers manually can feel like a never-ending battle.
Instead, iPhone users need tools and features that stop unwanted calls before they even reach the screen.
Method 1: Use Apple’s Built-in Silence Unknown Callers Feature
Apple introduced the Silence Unknown Callers feature in iOS 13, offering a simple yet powerful way to cut down on spam.
Here’s how to activate it:
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Open the Settings app.
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Scroll down and select Phone.
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In the Calls section, tap Silence Unknown Callers.
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Toggle the feature ON (the switch will turn green).
Once enabled, all calls from numbers not in your contacts, recent outgoing calls, or Siri Suggestions will be automatically silenced. They won’t ring your phone but will still appear in your Recent Calls list and can leave voicemail messages.
Things to Keep in Mind
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Emergency numbers are also silenced. However, if you place an emergency call, your iPhone will temporarily disable this feature for 24 hours.
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Calls from doctors, schools, or businesses not saved in your contacts may also be silenced. Always check voicemail or recent calls if you’re expecting an important but unknown number.
Method 2: Block Spam Calls with Third-Party Apps
If you prefer more advanced filtering, third-party apps provide another effective option. Popular choices include Truecaller, Hiya, and RoboKiller. These apps use large databases of known spam numbers to identify and block potential scams in real time.
How to Set Up a Spam-Blocking App on iPhone
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Open the App Store and search for a spam-blocking app.
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Download and install your preferred option (many offer free basic features).
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Open the app and allow necessary permissions.
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Go to Settings > Phone > Call Blocking & Identification.
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Under Call Identification Apps, toggle the app ON.
With this setup, incoming calls will be filtered by the app, blocking or labeling suspicious numbers before they reach you.
Free vs. Paid Options
Most spam-blocking apps are free to download, with optional premium features. For example, Truecaller offers caller ID and spam detection at no cost, while advanced features like live spam protection or detailed caller insights may require a subscription.
If you’re new to these apps, start with the free version—you may find it’s enough to handle most unwanted calls.
Looking Ahead: Apple’s iOS 26 Call Screening
While iPhone users already have useful tools to silence spam, Apple’s upcoming Call Screening feature in iOS 26 promises a more robust solution. Similar to what’s available on Google’s Pixel devices, this feature will allow users to screen suspicious calls in real time before deciding whether to answer.
Until then, combining Silence Unknown Callers with a spam-blocking app is the best way to protect yourself from persistent spam calls.
Final Thoughts
Spam calls are more than just annoying—they can be a security threat. Thankfully, Apple’s built-in settings and trusted third-party apps provide powerful tools to stop unwanted calls in their tracks. By taking just a few minutes to adjust your settings, you can enjoy a quieter phone and greater peace of mind.
