Are you tired of receiving unwanted calls from specific area codes or prefixes on your iPhone? Whether it’s telemarketers, scammers, or annoying robocalls, these unwanted calls can be frustrating and disrupt your daily life. Fortunately, Apple provides several ways to block unwanted calls on your iPhone, including blocking specific area codes and prefixes. In this article, we’ll explore the different methods to block area codes and prefixes on your iPhone, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to do it.
Understanding Call Blocking on iPhone
Before we dive into the methods of blocking area codes and prefixes, it’s essential to understand how call blocking works on iPhone. Apple provides several features to block unwanted calls, including:
- Do Not Disturb: This feature allows you to silence calls and notifications during specific times or events.
- Blocked Contacts: You can block specific contacts from calling or texting you.
- Call Blocking Apps: There are several third-party apps available that can block unwanted calls.
However, these features have limitations. For example, Do Not Disturb only silences calls and notifications, but doesn’t block them entirely. Blocked Contacts only blocks specific numbers, not area codes or prefixes. Call blocking apps can be effective, but may require a subscription or have limited features.
Method 1: Blocking Area Codes and Prefixes using iPhone’s Built-in Feature
iOS 13 and later versions have a built-in feature that allows you to block specific area codes and prefixes. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Open the Settings App
Open the Settings app on your iPhone and scroll down to the “Phone” section.
Step 2: Tap on “Muted Contacts”
Tap on “Muted Contacts” and then tap on “Add New”.
Step 3: Enter the Area Code and Prefix
Enter the area code and prefix you want to block, followed by a wildcard character (). For example, if you want to block all calls from the 555 area code with the prefix 123, you would enter “555123“.
Step 4: Save the Entry
Tap “Save” to save the entry.
Method 2: Blocking Area Codes and Prefixes using a Third-Party App
If you’re not satisfied with the built-in feature or want more advanced features, you can use a third-party app to block area codes and prefixes. There are several apps available on the App Store that offer call blocking features, including:
- Nomorobo: This app uses a unique algorithm to block robocalls and telemarketers.
- Truecaller: This app provides a comprehensive call blocking feature that allows you to block specific numbers, area codes, and prefixes.
- RoboKiller: This app uses a combination of algorithms and user reports to block unwanted calls.
When choosing a third-party app, consider the following factors:
- Effectiveness: Look for apps with high ratings and positive reviews.
- Features: Consider the types of features you need, such as blocking specific numbers or area codes.
- Cost: Some apps may require a subscription or have in-app purchases.
Step 1: Download and Install the App
Download and install the app from the App Store.
Step 2: Set up the App
Follow the app’s setup instructions to configure the call blocking feature.
Step 3: Enter the Area Code and Prefix
Enter the area code and prefix you want to block, following the app’s instructions.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you block unwanted calls on your iPhone:
- Use a wildcard character: When entering an area code and prefix, use a wildcard character (*) to block all numbers with that prefix.
- Block multiple area codes: You can block multiple area codes and prefixes by separating them with a comma.
- Use a call blocking app in conjunction with iPhone’s built-in feature: Using a third-party app in conjunction with iPhone’s built-in feature can provide an additional layer of protection against unwanted calls.
Conclusion
Blocking area codes and prefixes on your iPhone can be an effective way to reduce unwanted calls and improve your overall phone experience. By using iPhone’s built-in feature or a third-party app, you can block specific area codes and prefixes with ease. Remember to follow the step-by-step guide and tips and tricks outlined in this article to get the most out of your call blocking feature.
| Method | Features | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone’s Built-in Feature | Blocks specific area codes and prefixes | Free |
| Third-Party Apps | Blocks specific numbers, area codes, and prefixes; advanced features such as algorithm-based blocking | Varies (some apps require a subscription or have in-app purchases) |
By taking control of your call blocking features, you can enjoy a more peaceful and productive phone experience.
Q: What is the benefit of blocking area codes and prefixes on my iPhone?
Blocking area codes and prefixes on your iPhone can significantly reduce the number of unwanted calls you receive. By blocking specific area codes or prefixes, you can prevent calls from telemarketers, spammers, and scammers who often use certain area codes or prefixes to make their calls. This can help you avoid annoying interruptions and potential scams.
Additionally, blocking area codes and prefixes can also help you avoid calls from unknown numbers that may be spoofed to look like they are coming from a legitimate source. By blocking these calls, you can protect yourself from potential phishing scams and other types of phone-based scams. This can give you peace of mind and help you feel more secure when using your iPhone.
Q: How do I block an area code on my iPhone?
To block an area code on your iPhone, you will need to use the “Blocked Contacts” feature in the Settings app. To do this, open the Settings app and scroll down to the “Phone” section. Tap on “Blocked Contacts” and then tap on “Add New” to add a new blocked contact. Enter the area code you want to block, followed by a wildcard character (such as “*”) to block all numbers with that area code.
Alternatively, you can also use third-party apps to block area codes on your iPhone. These apps can provide more advanced features and flexibility when it comes to blocking unwanted calls. Some popular apps for blocking area codes include Truecaller, Nomorobo, and Hiya. These apps can be downloaded from the App Store and can be configured to block specific area codes or prefixes.
Q: Can I block multiple area codes at once on my iPhone?
Yes, you can block multiple area codes at once on your iPhone. To do this, you will need to use the “Blocked Contacts” feature in the Settings app, as described earlier. When adding a new blocked contact, you can enter multiple area codes separated by commas or use a wildcard character (such as “*”) to block all numbers with a specific prefix.
Alternatively, you can also use third-party apps to block multiple area codes at once. These apps often provide more advanced features and flexibility when it comes to blocking unwanted calls. Some popular apps for blocking area codes include Truecaller, Nomorobo, and Hiya. These apps can be configured to block multiple area codes or prefixes, and can also provide additional features such as call filtering and caller ID.
Q: How do I block a specific prefix on my iPhone?
To block a specific prefix on your iPhone, you will need to use the “Blocked Contacts” feature in the Settings app. To do this, open the Settings app and scroll down to the “Phone” section. Tap on “Blocked Contacts” and then tap on “Add New” to add a new blocked contact. Enter the prefix you want to block, followed by a wildcard character (such as “*”) to block all numbers with that prefix.
For example, if you want to block all numbers with the prefix “555-123”, you would enter “555-123*” in the blocked contact field. This will block all calls from numbers that start with the prefix “555-123”. You can also use third-party apps to block specific prefixes on your iPhone, as described earlier.
Q: Will blocking area codes and prefixes affect my ability to receive calls from legitimate sources?
Blocking area codes and prefixes on your iPhone can potentially affect your ability to receive calls from legitimate sources. If you block an area code or prefix that is used by a legitimate caller, such as a friend or family member, they may not be able to reach you. Therefore, it’s essential to be careful when blocking area codes and prefixes to avoid blocking legitimate calls.
To minimize the risk of blocking legitimate calls, you can use third-party apps that provide more advanced features and flexibility when it comes to blocking unwanted calls. These apps can often be configured to allow calls from specific numbers or contacts, even if they are from a blocked area code or prefix. Additionally, you can also use the “Blocked Contacts” feature in the Settings app to allow calls from specific contacts, even if they are from a blocked area code or prefix.
Q: Can I block international calls on my iPhone?
Yes, you can block international calls on your iPhone. To do this, you will need to use the “Blocked Contacts” feature in the Settings app, as described earlier. When adding a new blocked contact, you can enter the country code for the country you want to block, followed by a wildcard character (such as “*”) to block all numbers from that country.
Alternatively, you can also use third-party apps to block international calls on your iPhone. These apps can provide more advanced features and flexibility when it comes to blocking unwanted calls. Some popular apps for blocking international calls include Truecaller, Nomorobo, and Hiya. These apps can be configured to block calls from specific countries or regions, and can also provide additional features such as call filtering and caller ID.
Q: How do I report unwanted calls to my carrier?
If you receive an unwanted call on your iPhone, you can report it to your carrier by forwarding the call to a special number. In the US, this number is 7726 (SPAM). To forward the call, open the Phone app and go to the “Recents” tab. Find the unwanted call and swipe left on it to reveal the “Report” option. Tap on “Report” and then select “Report as Spam” to forward the call to your carrier.
Alternatively, you can also report unwanted calls to your carrier by contacting their customer service department directly. They can provide you with more information on how to report unwanted calls and may be able to assist you in blocking the number or taking other action to prevent future unwanted calls. Additionally, you can also file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) if you believe you have been the victim of a phone scam or other type of unwanted call.