iPhone XS Max – How to Block Unwanted Calls and Messages

The iPhone XS Max is a great phone, but like any phone, you may receive unwanted calls and messages. Here is a guide on how to block these effectively on your iPhone XS Max.

Use the Block Callers Feature

The easiest way to block unwanted calls and messages is to use the built-in Block Callers feature:

  1. Open the Phone app
  2. Tap Recents and find the number you want to block
  3. Tap the i icon next to the number
  4. Scroll down and tap Block this Caller

You can also block contacts directly from your contact list this way.

To manage your blocked numbers:

  1. Go to Settings > Phone
  2. Tap Blocked Contacts
  3. You can unblock numbers or add new numbers to block

Enable Silence Unknown Callers

To filter out calls from numbers not in your contacts:

  1. Go to Settings > Phone
  2. Turn on Silence Unknown Callers

This will send all calls from numbers not in your contacts directly to voicemail.

Filter Unknown Senders

You can also filter iMessages from people not in your contacts:

  1. Go to Settings > Messages
  2. Turn on Filter Unknown Senders

This will filter messages from unknown contacts into a separate list so they do not bother you.

Use Third-Party Call Blocking Apps

There are also third-party call blocking apps you can install for additional options:

  • Nomorobo – Blocks robocalls and telemarketers
  • Truecaller – Crowdsourced spam call and text database
  • Mr. Number – Reverse phone lookup and block

These provide advanced call and text blocking functionality like blacklists, whitelists and more.

Set Communication Limits

Another option is to set Communication Limits:

  1. Go to Settings > Screen Time > Communication Limits
  2. Select During Screen Time or Always Allowed
  3. Choose Contacts Only or other options

This allows you to limit communication to approved contacts only during set times.

Report Junk Messages

If you receive a suspicious or unwanted iMessage:

  1. Open the message
  2. Tap contact name/number
  3. Tap Report Junk to report it to Apple

This helps Apple block spam messages system-wide.

By using these blocking features and apps, you can effectively stop unwanted calls and texts on an iPhone XS Max. Test different options to find what works best for your needs. Maintain strong privacy and connectivity with important contacts by blocking disruptions.