How to Filter Unknown Calls and Texts on Your iPhone

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If spam calls and texts are taking over your phone, you’re not alone, and it’s only getting worse. The good news? Your iPhone already has powerful features to help stop the flood. No extra apps, no subscriptions, no hassle. Just a few smart settings and you’re back in control.

This guide shows you how to filter and block those annoying unknown calls and texts using the tools already built into your iPhone. It’s about working smarter with the tech you have. And with support from expert IT services, you can take full advantage of these features to keep scammers out and your digital life running smoothly.

8 Smart Ways to Silence Scammers on Your iPhone and Take Back Control

1. Start with the Basics: Block That Number

Just got a sketchy call or spammy text? The easiest fix is to block the number right away.

To block a number that called you:

  • Open the Phone app

  • Tap on “Recents”

  • Find the number and tap the Info (i) icon

  • Scroll down and hit “Block this Caller”

If they’re contacting you through FaceTime, it’s the same process. Just open the app, tap the (i), scroll, and block.

To block a spam text:

  • Go to “Messages”

  • Open the conversation

  • Tap the contact name/photo at the top

  • Tap Info on the right

  • Scroll and select “Block this Caller”

Once blocked, they’re cut off from contacting you, no alerts, no interruptions.

2. Report Junk Messages the Smart Way

Blocking is helpful, but reporting spam trains your phone to recognize and filter similar junk messages in the future, especially those from unknown numbers.

Here’s how report:

  • Tap the text

  • Select “Report Junk” (in small blue text)

  • Confirm with “Delete and Report Junk”

Note: This doesn’t block the number, but it does help Apple flag similar messages in the future.

3. Want Fewer Distractions? Silence Unknown Callers

Here’s a little-known gem buried in your iPhone’s settings, a feature that automatically silences calls from numbers you don’t know.

To activate:

  • Go to Settings

  • Tap “Phone”

  • Scroll to “Silence Unknown Callers” and toggle it on

It sends calls from unknown calls straight to voicemail, so only people you know can reach you. Simple, quiet, and stress-free.

Note:

  • If you call emergency services (like 911), this setting turns off for 24 hours, just in case they need to reach you back.

  • If Siri finds that number in your emails or text messages, it may let the call through. 

4. Filter Messages from Unknown Senders

Let’s shift gears to text messages. If your iMessage inbox feels like a spam folder, this one’s for you.

To filter out unknown senders:

  • Open Settings

  • Tap “Messages”

  • Toggle on “Filter Unknown Senders”

Now, when you open the Messages app, tap Filters in the top-left corner. You’ll see two sections: Known Senders and Unknown Senders. The latter collects any message from a number that’s not in your contacts. You won’t get notifications from them either, which is a blessing.

This feature works a bit like how IT support filters junk email, keeping your digital space clean without deleting things you might need later.

 5. Block Spam Emails Right from the Mail App

Got an annoying marketing email or someone spamming your inbox? You can block them directly from Apple’s Mail app.

To block an email address:

  • Open the Mail app

  • Tap on the email address in question

  • Select “Block this Contact”

If you’re using multiple Apple devices with the same iCloud account, the block applies across all of them. For non-Apple email providers like Gmail or Outlook, you'll need to block them separately.

6. Third-Party Help: Add Extra Filters (Optional)

If you want more firepower, you can try third-party apps that specialize in spam detection. Some options are free on the App Store and add an extra layer of security.

To get started:

  • Download one or more call filter apps

  • Go to Settings > Phone

  • Tap “Call Blocking & Identification”

  • Toggle the app(s) on

Some mobile carriers also offer spam filters. If available, you’ll see “Silence Junk Callers” in your settings. It works like Apple’s silence feature but uses your carrier’s database to detect spam before it even reaches you.

7. How to See Who You’ve Blocked

Maybe you want to review who you’ve blocked, or unblock someone after a change of heart?

Here’s how you can:

  • Phone blocks: Settings > Phone > Blocked Contacts

  • Mail blocks: Settings > Mail > Blocked

  • FaceTime blocks: Settings > FaceTime > Blocked Contacts

  • Message blocks: Settings > Messages > Blocked Contacts

You can also add new contacts to your block list from any of these menus by tapping “Add New.”

8. What Actually Happens When You Block Someone?

Blocking isn’t a full-on ban; it’s more like putting that person on permanent “Do Not Disturb.”

Here’s what to expect:

  • Blocked callers can still leave a voicemail (but you won’t get a notification)

  • Texts from blocked numbers disappear quietly

  • Emails from blocked contacts go directly to your trash

  • The person you blocked? They’ll never know, they get no notification

Give Yourself Some Peace and Quiet


You shouldn’t have to flinch every time your phone buzzes. With just a few smart settings, your iPhone can work like your own built-in tech support, blocking scammers, silencing spam, and making sure the important calls and messages get through.

Whether you’re avoiding bogus IRS calls or done with “You’ve won!” texts, the tools you need are already on your phone. No extra apps, no hassle, just a few simple steps now for a much quieter, more peaceful digital life.

Your iPhone isn’t just smart; it’s your first line of defense against digital noise. Need a hand setting things up or looking for stronger protection? BrainStomp’s IT services are here to help keep your devices secure, efficient, and scam-free. Get in touch today and silence the noise for good.