How Do I Block Telemarketers on My iPhone?
The constant barrage of telemarketing calls on your iPhone can be a real nuisance. These unwanted interruptions not only disrupt your workflow but can also be scams trying to steal your personal information. Thankfully, Apple provides various tools to help you silence the telemarketing noise and regain control of your iPhone.
Understanding the Callers
There are two primary types of unwanted calls that plague iPhones:
- Robocalls: These automated pre-recorded Pay Per-Lead Telemarketing messages are often delivered by dialing systems. Robocalls frequently attempt to sell you products or services and can be illegal.
- Live Telemarketers: These are actual people calling to promote products or services. While some legitimate businesses use telemarketing, it can still be disruptive.
Blocking Telemarketers on Your iPhone
Here are several effective methods you can utilize on your iPhone to block telemarketers and regain peace of mind:
1. Block Individual Numbers
This is a straightforward method for dealing with specific numbers that repeatedly bother you.
- Open the Phone app on your iPhone.
- Locate the recent call from the number you want to block.
- Tap the “i” icon next to the phone number.
- Scroll down and tap “Block this Caller.”
- Confirm your selection by tapping “Block Contact.”
Important Note: Telemarketers often use spoofed numbers, making them appear like legitimate calls. Blocking individual numbers may not be a long-term solution for everyone.
2. Silence Unknown Callers (iOS 13 and Later)
This feature allows you to filter The Irresistible Rise of #800Giveaways: Why They Captivate Social Media from unknown numbers, significantly reducing disruptions from potential telemarketers.
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Tap “Phone.”
- Scroll down and tap “Silence Unknown Callers.”
- Toggle the switch ON to activate the feature.
With this setting enabled, calls from unrecognized numbers will be silenced and sent directly to voicemail. You will still receive a notification for the missed call, allowing you to check voicemails for legitimate calls.
3. Utilize Call Blocking and Identification Apps (iOS 13 and Later)
The App Store offers various call blocking and identification apps that can help you combat telemarketers. These apps use databases and algorithms to identify and block spam calls before they even reach your phone.
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Tap “Phone.”
- Select “Call Blocking & Identification.”
- Under “Call Identification Apps,” toggle ON the switch for the app you wish to use.
- You can prioritize apps by rearranging them within this menu.
Important Note: Downloading call blocking and identification apps is optional. These apps may require additional subscriptions or in-app purchases.
4. Report Robocalls and Spam Calls
By reporting these calls, you can help improve call filtering systems and potentially assist authorities in tracking down scammers.
- Open the Phone app on your iPhone.
- Locate the recent call from the number you want to report.
- Tap the “i” icon next to the phone number.
- Scroll down and tap “Report Junk Call.”
Reporting these calls helps build databases used by call-blocking apps and phone carriers to identify and filter out robocalls and spam calls.
5. Consider Do Not Disturb While Driving
This feature, while primarily designed for safety while driving, can also be helpful in silencing unwanted calls during specific times.
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Tap “Do Not Disturb.”
- Select “While Driving.” Here you can choose from various options, including automatic activation based on car motion or manual activation.
Important Note: Do Not Disturb While Driving can be a helpful tool, but prioritize safety by only using it when not actively driving.
By implementing these strategies, you can take back control of your iPhone and significantly reduce the number of telemarketing calls you receive. Remember, a little effort can go a long way in creating a quieter and more focused mobile experience.
