Introduction
Privacy is important, and many iPhone users often wonder how to block their number on their device. Whether it’s to maintain your anonymity when making calls, to prevent spam calls or unwanted texts, or to avoid being bothered during work hours, blocking your phone number can be a great solution. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to block your number on iPhone, whether through the built-in feature, third-party apps, or other methods.
Step-by-Step Guide to Blocking Your Number on iPhone
The first, simplest way to block your number on iPhone is to turn off your caller ID. This method works for any device that has a “Show My Caller ID” setting and is a great option if you only want to block your number for a single message or call. Here’s how to do it:
A. Go to Settings
Locate the Settings app on your home screen and tap on it to open it.
B. Tap on Phone
Scroll down until you find the “Phone” option and tap on it.
C. Tap on Show My Caller ID
Scroll down under the “Calls” sub-section of the Phone menu and look for the “Show My Caller ID” option. Tap on it to go to the next menu.
D. Toggle off the switch next to Show My Caller ID
The switch will turn off, and your phone number will no longer be visible to anyone you call. You can toggle it back on at any time to start revealing your caller ID once more.
E. Return to the home screen
When you’re finished, press the Home button to return to your home screen.
Using the Built-In “Block This Caller” Feature
If you want to block calls and texts from a specific contact, you can use the “Block This Caller” feature built into the iPhone. Here’s how to use it:
A. Go to the Phone app
Find and tap on the Phone app on your iPhone’s home screen, which has an icon of a phone receiver.
B. Tap on the “i” icon next to the number you want to block
Depending on your version of iOS, this icon might be located to the right or left of the number in your call history or after clicking on a specific contact.
C. Scroll down and tap on Block This Caller
Scroll until you see the “Block This Caller” option towards the bottom of the screen and tap on it.
D. Confirm your decision
A pop-out window will appear asking you to confirm that you want to block this caller from contacting you. Tap on “Block Contact” to confirm the decision.
Using a Third-Party App to Block Your Number
If you want more advanced features, such as blocking calls from private or unknown numbers, you can use a third-party app. Here are some of the best apps to help you block your number:
1. Truecaller
Truecaller enables you to identify and block unwanted calls and texts, including those that originate from private or hidden numbers.
2. Mr. Number
Mr. Number gives you a range of call blocking options, such as blocking calls from any number not in your contacts or all calls from private or unknown numbers.
3. RoboKiller
RoboKiller uses AI-powered technology to recognize and block spam calls automatically, so you don’t have to manually block each number yourself.
How to Block Your Number on iPhone for a Single Call
If you only want to block your caller ID for a single call, you can use the following method:
A. Dial *67
Before dialing the phone number you wish to call, type *67 first.
B. Enter the number you want to call
Dial the phone number you wish to call, as you would do normally.
C. Make the call as usual
Once you have entered the number you want to call, press the Call button as you would typically.
Understanding the Do Not Disturb Mode
The Do Not Disturb mode is a built-in feature that allows you to silence calls, alerts, and notifications temporarily while still letting certain contacts or apps through. This feature is perfect for those who need to concentrate during an important meeting or sleep without disturbance. Here’s how to use it:
A. Go to Settings
Find and tap on the Settings app on your home screen.
B. Tap on Do Not Disturb
Navigate to the “Do Not Disturb” option on your screen and tap on it to enter the menu. Adjust the settings as per your preference.
C. Toggle on the switch next to Do Not Disturb
Switch the toggle on the right side of the screen to turn on Do Not Disturb mode.
D. Customize your settings as desired
You can choose specific features to remain enabled, including calls from specific contacts, and certain apps not silenced, such as your alarm clock, and more.
Setting Up Call Screening
Call screening is a feature that allows the phone to automatically screen spam calls, and only allow legitimate calls through. Here’s how to use this feature:
A. Go to Settings
Navigate to settings and select “Phone.”
B. Tap on Call Blocking & Identification
Tap on the Call Blocking & Identification option, located under “Calls.”
C. Toggle on the switch next to Silence Unknown Callers
When the Silence Unknown Callers toggle is switched on, all calls from unknown and unwanted numbers will automatically be silenced, so your phone will not ring.
Tips for Keeping Your Number Private
Here are some strategies and tips you can use to keep your phone number private:
A. Only give out your phone number to trusted sources
Be aware of the possible dangers that come with freely giving out your phone number, and only share it with trusted sources.
B. Use a secondary phone number for certain purposes
If you want to register for a website service that requires a phone number, consider getting a secondary phone number to use instead for privacy reasons.
C. Don’t answer calls from unknown numbers
If you don’t recognize the phone number of an incoming call, avoid answering it altogether. If it’s an important message, they’ll likely try to contact you via email or voicemail.
Conclusion
Blocking your number on iPhone is a great way to maintain your privacy and avoid unwanted calls and texts. Whether you use the built-in feature, third-party apps, or other methods discussed here, make sure to follow best practices for keeping your privacy secure. So, use these methods to successfully block your number on the iPhone and stay secure.
