Blocking spam calls on iPhone 14 can be done in a few simple steps. First, update your iOS to the latest version. Then, enable the “Silence Unknown Callers” feature in the phone settings. This will send calls from unknown numbers straight to voicemail. Additionally, consider installing a third-party spam call blocking app from the App Store and report spam numbers directly through the Phone app.
After you’ve set this up, calls from unknown numbers, including potential spam calls, will be silenced, sent straight to voicemail, and displayed in the ‘recent’ list. Any numbers found in your contacts, mail, and messages will still be able to get through. This doesn’t block the spam calls per se but silences them, providing a peaceful, uninterrupted phone experience.
Introduction
Nobody likes to be interrupted by unwanted calls, especially when you’re waiting for an important call, right? With the increasing number of spam calls nowadays, it has become more crucial than ever to know how to block these calls on your iPhone. Whether you own the latest iPhone 14 or an older model, the good news is that Apple provides built-in features to help you manage and block these annoying calls. Plus, there are third-party apps available that can add an extra layer of protection. Spam calls can range from telemarketing calls, robocalls, or even scams trying to get your personal information. It’s not just an annoyance; it can also be a threat to your privacy and security. That’s why understanding how to block spam calls is relevant to pretty much everyone with a phone. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t have a phone these days?
Related: How to Block Text Messages on iPhone 14
Step by Step Tutorial
This step-by-step guide will help you set up your iPhone 14 to block or silence spam calls.
Step 1: Update Your iOS
Ensure that your iPhone 14 is running the latest version of iOS.
Keeping your iOS up to date ensures that you have the latest features and security updates. To check for updates, go to Settings > General > Software Update. If there’s an update available, follow the onscreen instructions to install it.
Step 2: Enable Silence Unknown Callers
Go to Phone settings and turn on the “Silence Unknown Callers” feature.
This feature is a game-changer when it comes to dealing with spam calls. When enabled, calls from unknown numbers are silenced, sent to your voicemail, and listed in your recent calls list. Numbers that you’ve saved in your contacts, or that you’ve interacted with recently, will still be able to call you.
Step 3: Download a Third-Party App
Consider installing a third-party app from the App Store that specializes in blocking spam calls.
There are various apps available that can provide additional protection against spam calls. These apps maintain a database of known spam numbers and automatically block calls from those numbers. Some popular options include RoboKiller, Hiya, and Truecaller.
Step 4: Report Spam Numbers
Use the “Report Spam” feature in the Phone app to report spam calls.
When you receive a call that you believe to be spam, you can report it directly through the Phone app. This not only helps improve the accuracy of spam call blocking on your own phone but also contributes to a larger database that helps protect other users as well.
Pros
Blocking spam calls on your iPhone 14 offers several benefits.
Peace of Mind
Enjoy a quieter, more peaceful phone experience.
With spam calls out of the way, you can use your phone without constant interruptions from unwanted calls. This is especially beneficial for people who use their phones for work or need to be available for important calls.
Increased Productivity
Stay focused and maintain your workflow without unnecessary disruptions.
Spam calls can be a major distraction, especially when you’re trying to get work done. By blocking these calls, you can stay focused on your tasks and maintain a more productive work environment.
Enhanced Security
Protect yourself from potential scams and phishing attempts.
Many spam calls are more than just a nuisance; they can also be a security threat. By blocking these calls, you protect yourself from scammers who might be trying to steal your personal information or trick you into giving them money.
Cons
While blocking spam calls has its benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider.
Potential for Blocked Legitimate Calls
You might miss calls from numbers not saved in your contacts.
The “Silence Unknown Callers” feature is a great tool, but it’s not perfect. There’s a potential for missing calls from legitimate numbers that you haven’t saved in your contacts or interacted with recently.
Dependence on Third-Party Apps
Third-party apps come with their own set of privacy concerns.
While third-party apps can add an extra layer of protection against spam calls, they also have access to your call logs and other personal information. It’s important to read the privacy policy and understand what data the app is collecting.
Not a 100% Solution
Spammers are constantly finding new ways to get through.
Even with all these tools and features in place, it’s important to understand that blocking spam calls is not a 100% solution. Spammers are constantly finding new ways to get through, and some calls might still slip through the cracks.
Additional Information
When it comes to blocking spam calls on your iPhone 14, there are a few additional tips and tricks that can enhance your experience. First, make sure to regularly update your contact list and add new numbers as necessary. This ensures that calls from people you know will always get through. Additionally, take advantage of the “Favorites” feature in the Phone app. Calls from numbers in your Favorites list will always ring, even when Do Not Disturb is on.
It’s also worth noting that while the “Silence Unknown Callers” feature is a powerful tool, it’s not always the perfect solution for everyone. If you’re someone who receives a lot of calls from new numbers for work or other reasons, you might find this feature more hindrance than help. In such cases, a third-party app that provides more granular control over call blocking might be a better option.
Summary
- Ensure your iPhone 14 is running the latest iOS version.
- Enable the “Silence Unknown Callers” feature in the Phone settings.
- Consider installing a third-party spam call blocking app.
- Report spam numbers directly through the Phone app.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will blocking spam calls also block text messages?
No, blocking spam calls on your iPhone 14 will not block text messages from the same number.
Can I unblock a number if I change my mind?
Yes, you can unblock a number at any time through the Phone settings.
Will the “Silence Unknown Callers” feature also silence calls from emergency services?
No, the feature is designed to allow calls from emergency services to always get through.
How do I update my iOS?
You can update your iOS in the Settings app under General > Software Update.
Can I still see missed calls from blocked or silenced numbers?
Yes, missed calls from blocked or silenced numbers will still appear in your recent calls list.
Conclusion
In today’s world, spam calls are an unfortunate reality, and they seem to be on the rise. Luckily, iPhone 14 users have a variety of tools at their disposal to help manage and block these annoying calls. From the built-in “Silence Unknown Callers” feature to a variety of third-party apps, there are plenty of options to choose from. While no solution is perfect, and there are some potential drawbacks to consider, the benefits of blocking spam calls — including a more peaceful phone experience, increased productivity, and enhanced security — are well worth it. So, take control of your phone experience today and say goodbye to unwanted calls!