Your iPhone is supposed to be a tool that simplifies your life. Whether you’re using it to chat with loved ones, stay updated with work, or manage your schedule, the last thing you need is a constant buzz of unwanted or spammy text messages. Fortunately, Apple provides users with multiple ways to block text messages and maintain control over who gets to contact them.
Whether you’re dealing with spam, marketing messages, or someone you’d rather not hear from, this guide will walk you through how to block texts on iPhone easily and effectively. We’ll also cover some advanced tips, frequently asked questions, and how to make sure blocked numbers stay that way.
Why Block Text Messages on iPhone?
There are countless reasons why someone might want to block a number from texting them. Here are a few of the most common:
- Stop spam or scam messages from unknown numbers
- Prevent harassment or unwanted communication from someone you know
- Avoid constant marketing texts from automated services
- Protect your children’s devices from inappropriate messages
- Regain focus and peace of mind by reducing distractions
No matter the reason, blocking texts is a practical and necessary step toward protecting your digital space.
Method 1: Block a Number from the Messages App
The most straightforward way to block texts is to do it directly from the conversation thread in the Messages app.
Steps to Block a Contact in Messages:
- Open the Messages app
- Tap on the conversation with the number or contact you want to block
- Tap the name or number at the top of the screen
- Tap the info (ℹ️) icon
- Scroll down and tap Block this Caller
- Confirm by tapping Block Contact
Once this is done, you will no longer receive texts, iMessages, calls, or FaceTime from this number. The person won’t be notified, but their messages will no longer appear on your device.
Method 2: Block a Number Through the Contacts App
If the person is saved in your Contacts list, you can block them there without even opening a message.
Steps:
- Open the Phone or Contacts app
- Find and tap on the contact you want to block
- Scroll down and tap Block this Caller
- Confirm by tapping Block Contact
This blocks all communication from that contact, including texts and calls.
Method 3: Filter Unknown Senders
If you’re being flooded with texts from unknown numbers or automated systems, you can enable Apple’s “Filter Unknown Senders” feature. It doesn’t block them, but it does separate them into a different tab, so you’re not constantly disturbed.
To Enable This Feature:
- Go to Settings > Messages
- Scroll down and toggle Filter Unknown Senders to ON
Now, messages from people not in your contacts will be moved to a separate “Unknown Senders” tab in your Messages app. You won’t get notifications from them.
Note: This is especially helpful for those who receive frequent marketing or unsolicited texts.
Method 4: Report Junk Messages (for iMessage)
If you receive an iMessage from someone you don’t know, Apple gives you the option to report it as junk.
Steps:
- Open the iMessage from the unknown sender
- Look for the “Report Junk” button underneath the message
- Tap Report Junk, then tap Delete and Report Junk
Apple uses this information to identify and potentially block future spam messages. This doesn’t block the number on your device, but it helps Apple improve its spam filtering.
Method 5: Block Numbers Through Settings
You can also manage your blocked numbers from the Settings app. This is useful for reviewing your list or adding new contacts to the block list manually.
Steps:
- Go to Settings > Messages
- Scroll down and tap Blocked Contacts
- Tap Add New
- Choose the contact you wish to block
This screen also lets you review all previously blocked numbers and unblock them if needed.
What Happens When You Block Someone on iPhone?
Blocking someone on your iPhone affects more than just text messages. Here’s what happens:
- You won’t receive iMessages or SMS texts from them
- You won’t receive calls or FaceTime
- The sender does not receive a notification that they’ve been blocked
- If they send a message, it will appear “Delivered” on their end (for iMessage), but you won’t receive it
This keeps your block silent and discreet, making it a stress-free solution for dealing with unwanted communication.
How to Unblock a Number
Unblocking someone is just as easy as blocking them, in case you change your mind or blocked someone by mistake.
Steps to Unblock:
- Go to Settings > Messages > Blocked Contacts
- Tap Edit (top right)
- Tap the red minus icon next to the number or contact
- Tap Unblock
The number is now removed from your blocked list and will be able to contact you again.
Can Blocked Numbers Still Leave Voicemails or Messages?
Yes—but with limitations:
- Voicemails: Blocked callers can still leave voicemails, but you won’t receive a notification. The messages will be sent to a separate “Blocked Messages” section in the Voicemail tab.
- Text Messages: Messages from blocked numbers won’t appear at all. You won’t be alerted or see any record of them, even if sent as an iMessage.
What About Group Messages?
Blocking a contact does not remove you from group texts they are in. However, you will stop receiving direct texts from them.
If you’re in a group chat with someone you’ve blocked, you will:
- Still receive group messages
- See messages from blocked users within the group chat
- Not receive direct, individual texts from them
Tip: You can leave a group chat entirely if needed by going to the group info and tapping Leave this Conversation (only works in iMessage with 3+ people).
Dealing With Persistent Spam Messages
Some spammers change numbers frequently, making them harder to block. Here’s what you can do:
✅ Use Filter Unknown Senders
As described earlier, this reduces notification spam.
✅ Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Links
Many scam texts contain links to phishing sites. If it looks suspicious, don’t open it.
✅ Don’t Reply “STOP” Unless You’re Sure
Replying can confirm that your number is active, leading to more spam.
✅ Report Spam to Your Carrier
Some carriers let you forward spam messages to a short code (like 7726) to report it.
Can You Block Texts from Email Addresses?
Yes. In rare cases, iPhone users may receive spam texts from email addresses rather than phone numbers. These messages usually appear in iMessage.
Steps to Block These Senders:
- Open the message from the email-based sender
- Tap their name or email at the top
- Tap Info > Block this Caller
This will block the sender across iMessage and other Apple communication tools.
Tips for Maintaining a Peaceful Inbox
- Keep your contact list updated: Filtering unknown senders is only effective if your contacts are up-to-date.
- Use a Screen Time passcode for children: This prevents them from changing block settings.
- Be cautious with your number: Avoid sharing your number on untrusted websites or platforms.
- Use Do Not Disturb or Focus Modes: Temporarily silence all incoming messages and calls during certain times of day.
FAQs About Blocking Texts on iPhone
Q: Will I know if a blocked number tries to contact me?
No. You won’t receive any alerts, and texts will not be delivered. The blocked person won’t be notified either.
Q: Does blocking a contact delete previous messages?
No. All previous messages remain on your device unless you delete the thread manually.
Q: Can I block all unknown numbers from texting me?
Not exactly. You can use “Filter Unknown Senders”, but iPhone doesn’t offer a universal block for all unknown texts. You have to block each number manually.
Q: Will the blocked person know they’ve been blocked?
Not directly. Their iMessages may still show as “Delivered,” but they won’t receive replies or see read receipts.
Q: Do blocked messages take up space?
No. They are not stored on your device and are discarded by the system.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Messages Clean and Safe
Your time and attention are valuable. Whether you’re working, spending time with loved ones, or simply enjoying a quiet moment, unwanted texts can be frustrating and disruptive. Fortunately, your iPhone puts you in control with easy-to-use tools for blocking and managing incoming messages.
From one-tap blocking in the Messages app to broader settings like Filter Unknown Senders, Apple provides everything you need to keep your inbox distraction-free and secure.
Take a few minutes today to review your message settings, block persistent senders, and filter out spam. A cleaner, quieter iPhone experience is just a few taps away.
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