How to Block & Unblock Numbers & Contacts on iPhone (2023)

If you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation, we'll show you how to check blocked numbers on iPhone, as well as how to block and unblock them.

* This post is part of iPhone Life's Tip of the Day newsletter. . *

Sometimes, whether it's an ex, a cyberbully, or an obnoxious telemarketer, a person just won't get the message and stop calling or texting you. That's when it's time to block their calls and texts on your iPhone. Let's talk about how to stop unwanted messages or phone calls on your iPhone. 

Related: How to Check Voicemails from Blocked Numbers on iPhone

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How to Block a Contact on iPhone in the Phone App 

Enabling call blocking for a specific number on your Apple device means you will no longer receive phone calls, FaceTime calls, text messages, or iMessages from that number. For more tips about how to use your iPhone, be sure to sign up for our Tip of the Day newsletter. 

Here’s how to block a phone number on iPhone:

  1. Open the Phone app.

    block number on phone app
  2. Tap the Info icon next to the contact you wish to block.

    tap info button next to number
  3. Scroll down to the bottom and tap Block this Caller.

    block that number
  4. Then, tap Block Contact.

    click to confirm

How to Block a Contact on iPhone in the Messages App 

If someone keeps texting you instead of calling, it may be more convenient to block them from the Messages app. This way is fairly simple as well.

  1. Open the Messages app.

    open messages to block number
  2. Tap the text conversation you'd like to block.

    select conversation you want to block
  3. Tap the Contact at the top of the screen.

    tap the contact info
  4. Tap the Info button.

    tap info
  5. Scroll down to the bottom and tap Block this Caller.

    tap block this caller
  6. Then, tap Block Contact.

    click to confirm

If you suspect this message is spam, we've also covered how to report spam messages straight to Apple.

How to Find Blocked Numbers on iPhone

If you want to know how to look at blocked numbers on your iPhone:

  1. Open Settings.

    open settings to view blocked numbers
  2. Tap Phone.

    go to phone in settings
  3. Tap Blocked Contacts.

    select blocked numbers to view them

You will now see a list of all the numbers you have blocked. 

How to Unblock Numbers on iPhone

Are you wondering how you unblock a number on your iPhone? Here's how:

  1. Open Settings.

    open settings to unblock
  2. Tap Phone.

    go to phone settings
  3. Tap Blocked Contacts.

    go to blocked contacts
  4. Swipe left on the contact you want to unblock.

    swipe left to unblock
  5. Tap Unblock.

    tap to unblock contact or number

Blocking people from contacting you is not only important for your safety, it can also be extremely beneficial for your peace of mind or mental health. Blocking doesn't have to be permanent and it doesn't notify the person when you've done it so don't worry about causing offense. Protect your peace and your iPhone from unwanted calls and messages. Happy blocking!

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Author Details

Sarah Kingsbury's picture

Author Details

Sarah Kingsbury

Sarah Kingsbury is the Editorial Directer at iPhone Life. She manages the web editorial team and oversees all web and newsletter content. A long-time iPhone and Mac enthusiast, Sarah loves teaching people how to use their Apple devices.