How to Block Fraud Calls – iPhone/iPad
Depending upon your phone/pad version, there are a few different ways to Block Numbers from ringing or alerting on an iPhone or iPad. Below are those options:
1. Recent Calls: Open Phone app > Recents > tap Info (i) button next to the number > Choose “Block this Caller” > then “Block Contact”.
2. From Messages: Open Messages app > go to the actual conversation > tap the contact number or name at the top of the screen > tap info (i) button > then, click “Block this Caller”.
3. From Contacts: Open Contacts app (or Phone app > then Contacts app) > tap the contact number/name > scroll down and tap “Block this Caller”.
4. From Settings: Open Settings app > scroll down and tap Apps at the bottom > then select Phone app > Messages (or FaceTime app) > Tap Add Blocked Contact > then enter the name to select it from your contacts list (if saved to Contacts), or just type the phone number or email address. > Then tap the “Block Contact: button to add it to your Block List. Phone and Messages apps support are disabled for that contact, meaning cellular phone calls, FaceTime calls, and SMS/iMessage texts.
5. If contact uses an email address to call you on FaceTime or iMessage: To make sure to block all calls or messages using an email address, open the Phone app and select the “Recents” tab, find the caller’s email address and hit the info button ⓘ next to a person’s email address and select “Block Caller” > “Block Contact.” The person can no longer FaceTime or iMessage you with this email address.
Important Notes: Once a number is blocked on your iPhone, this action is synced to your other Apple devices — adding it to your Block Lists on your iPads, Macs, or other iPhones, all sharing the same Apple Account. You won’t need to block them on each Apple device. However, this change does not stop the contact from messaging or calling you on third-party apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook Messenger, Signal, etc. But most all of these 3rd-party apps used for calls and messages have their own blocking features under “Settings.”
Please note: Blocked callers cannot leave notifications for messages or calls, but they can still leave voicemail messages.
Do Not Call Registry
The National Do Not Call Registry is a list of landline and wireless phone numbers that legitimate telemarketers agree not to call. You can register your numbers for free at donotcall.gov, or by calling 1-888-382-1222 (TTY: 1-866-290-4236). You must call from the phone number you wish to register.
Under FCC rules, telemarketers calling your home must provide their name along with the name, telephone number, and address where their employer or contractor can be contacted. Telemarketing calls to your home are prohibited before 8 a.m. and after 9 p.m., and telemarketers must comply immediately with any do-not-call request you make during a call.
Other do-not-call lists
Many states now have statewide do-not-call lists for residents. Contact your state’s public service commission or consumer protection office to find out if your state has such a list and how you can sign up.
