Unwanted text messages can be annoying and distracting. Whether it’s spam texts from unknown numbers or texts from someone you know that you want to avoid, there are a few easy ways to block texts on your iPhone 7 or 7 Plus.
Table of Contents
Why You Should Block Unwanted Texts
Here are some reasons why you may want to block texts:
- Avoid distraction from unwanted texts
- Stop spam or scam texts
- Prevent harassment or bullying via text
- Reduce clutter in your Messages app
Blocking texts can give you more control over who can contact you and help minimize interruptions.
How to Block a Number from Texting You
There are a couple methods you can use to block texts from a specific number on your iPhone 7 or 7 Plus:
Block Directly from a Message
- Open the Messages app
- Tap on the conversation with the number you want to block
- Tap on the contact name or number at the top of the conversation
- Scroll down and tap “Block this Caller”
- Confirm by tapping “Block Contact”
Block from Contacts
- Open Contacts app
- Select the contact you want to block
- Scroll down and tap “Block this Caller”
- Confirm by tapping “Block Contact”
Once blocked, that number will no longer be able to call, text, or FaceTime you.
Note: You can still receive iMessages from blocked contacts if they text you using their Apple ID email address rather than their phone number. To prevent this, you’d also need to block their Apple ID email address.
How to Filter Unknown Senders
While blocking individual numbers can be helpful, persistent spammers often change numbers. So blocking each new number becomes tedious.
A better solution is to filter out texts from all unknown senders:
- Go to Settings > Messages
- Turn on Filter Unknown Senders
This will route texts from unknown numbers to a separate tab in the Messages app. You won’t get notifications for these messages, but you can check them if needed by tapping the Unknown Senders tab.
How to Report Spam Texts
If you receive a suspicious text from an unknown number, you can report it directly to Apple:
- In the message, tap “Report Junk”
- Tap “Delete and Report Junk” to confirm
Reporting the message helps Apple and carriers crack down on spam networks. But it doesn’t block that number from texting you again in the future. To do that, use the blocking steps covered earlier.
How to Manage Blocked Contacts
To view your list of blocked phone numbers and contacts:
- Go to Settings > Phone
- Tap “Blocked Contacts”
From here you can:
- Unblock a contact
- Add new numbers or contacts to block
- Remove blocked contacts
Tips for Dealing With Persistent Spam Texters
If you find yourself continually pestered by unwanted texts, here are some additional things you can try:
- Contact your carrier – Most major carriers have spam text reporting tools and block lists you can use.
- Use a spam call and text blocker app – Third party apps like RoboKiller or Hiya can automatically block known spam numbers.
- Change your phone number – As a last resort, getting a new phone number stops anyone who had your old number from contacting you.
Recap of Ways to Block Texts on iPhone
- Block individual contacts or numbers
- Filter all texts from unknown senders
- Report spam texts to Apple
- Use carrier spam tools
- Try a spam blocking app
- Change your phone number
Blocking unwanted texts on your iPhone quickly helps eliminate distractions and harassment. Use the steps outlined in this guide to take control of your Messages app and stop unwanted texts in their tracks!
