Blocking a contact on your iPhone 12 is an effective way to stop unwanted calls, messages, and FaceTime from that person. Whether you’re dealing with persistent spam, an ex, or anyone you’d prefer not to hear from, blocking helps you regain control over your device and your peace of mind. Before you begin, ensure your iPhone 12 is updated to the latest iOS version for optimal functionality. You don’t need any additional apps or tools—your iPhone’s built-in features are sufficient for blocking contacts efficiently.
What You’ll Need
- An iPhone 12 with iOS 14 or later installed
- The contact you wish to block saved in your contacts or accessible via recent calls/messages
Step-by-Step
- Open the Phone app on your iPhone 12. You can find it on your Home Screen or in the App Library.
- Navigate to the ‘Recents’ tab at the bottom to find the recent call from the contact you want to block. Alternatively, go to the ‘Contacts’ tab if you already have the contact saved.
- Tap the small ‘i’ icon (information button) next to the contact or number. This opens the contact details or call information.
- Scroll down to the bottom of the contact details page. Tap on the option labeled ‘Block this Caller’ or ‘Block Contact.’
- A confirmation prompt will appear. Tap ‘Block Contact’ again to confirm. The contact is now blocked, and they will no longer be able to call, message, or FaceTime you.
- Alternatively, you can block a contact via Settings: go to Settings > Phone > Blocked Contacts > Add New. Then, select the contact or number you wish to block from your contacts list.
- To review or unblock a contact later, return to Settings > Phone > Blocked Contacts, find the contact, and swipe left to unblock or tap ‘Edit’ to remove them from the list.
Common Mistakes
- Not scrolling down to find the ‘Block this Caller’ option—it’s easy to miss if you’re not thorough.
- Blocking a contact only from the Phone app—remember, contacts can also be blocked from Messages and FaceTime separately.
- Unintentionally blocking the wrong contact—double-check the contact details before confirming the block.
- Assuming blocking stops all notifications—blocked contacts will no longer reach you via calls, messages, or FaceTime, but they may still leave voicemails.
- For numbers not saved in your contacts, you’ll need to manually input the number in the ‘Add New’ section under Blocked Contacts.
Tips
- If you want to unblock someone later, simply go to Settings > Phone > Blocked Contacts, find their name or number, and tap ‘Unblock.’
- To avoid missing important calls from blocked contacts, consider setting up custom filters or using Do Not Disturb modes selectively.
- Blocking via the contact’s info page is quick and efficient, especially if you receive frequent calls from the same number.
- If the contact is calling from a private or unknown number, you can block all unknown callers in Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers.
- Remember, blocking a contact does not delete the conversation history; you can choose to delete the chat separately if desired.
Troubleshooting
If you find that the contact is still able to call or message you after blocking, try the following steps:
- Ensure your iPhone 12 is running the latest iOS version. Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Restart your iPhone. Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary glitches.
- Verify that the contact was correctly blocked by going to Settings > Phone > Blocked Contacts and checking the list.
- If the contact is still reaching you via other apps like WhatsApp or third-party messaging services, you’ll need to block them within those specific apps.
- Contact Apple Support if the problem persists or if you suspect a bug affecting the blocking feature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I unblock a contact later?
Yes, you can unblock a contact anytime by going to Settings > Phone > Blocked Contacts, then tapping ‘Edit’ and selecting ‘Unblock’ next to their name or number.
Does blocking a contact delete existing messages or calls?
No, blocking prevents future calls and messages but does not delete existing conversations or call history.
Will the blocked contact know they are blocked?
No, they will not receive any notification that they are blocked. Calls will simply not go through, and messages will not be delivered.
Can I block a number not saved in my contacts?
Yes, you can add any number directly in the Blocked Contacts list via Settings > Phone > Blocked Contacts > Add New.
Is there a way to block calls from unknown or private numbers?
Yes, go to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers to automatically silence calls from unknown numbers and prevent disruptions.
Will blocking a contact stop FaceTime calls too?
Yes, blocking a contact on your iPhone blocks calls, messages, and FaceTime from that person.
Blocking a contact on your iPhone 12 is a straightforward process that enhances your privacy and peace of mind. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll be able to manage unwanted contacts effectively. Remember, the blocking feature is reversible, so you can unblock contacts whenever you choose.
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