How to Block Text Messages on iPhone X (and Other iPhones)

Getting bombarded with spam or just need to stop someone from texting you? Blocking texts on your iPhone is quick and easy — and once someone’s blocked, they can’t call, FaceTime, or message you again.

Here’s exactly how to block text messages on iPhone X and any other iPhone running iOS 11 or newer.

Block Texts from the Messages App

If the person or number has already messaged you, the easiest way to block them is straight from the Messages app.

Here’s how:

Open the Messages app.
Tap the conversation with the person you want to block.
Tap the (i) info icon in the top right.
Scroll to the bottom and tap Block This Caller.
Confirm by tapping Block Contact.

That’s it — you won’t receive calls, texts, or FaceTime from them again.

Unblock a Contact (If You Change Your Mind)

Want to let someone contact you again?

Go back into Messages > tap the thread > (i) icon.
Scroll down and tap Unblock This Caller.

They’ll be able to text, call, or FaceTime you again immediately.

Block Numbers Through the Settings App

You can also manage blocked numbers in your iPhone settings.

Go to Settings > Messages.
Tap Blocked Contacts.
Tap Add New to block someone from your contacts list.
To unblock, swipe left on the number and tap Unblock.

This method is helpful if you want to block someone without waiting for them to text first.

Filter Messages from Unknown Senders

Don’t want random people sliding into your iMessages?

Go to Settings > Messages.
Toggle on Filter Unknown Senders.

This moves messages from unknown numbers into a separate list and stops notifications from popping up.

Report and Stop Junk Text Messages

When you get a sketchy message from a number you don’t know, Apple lets you report it.

Under the suspicious message, tap Report Junk.
Then tap Delete and Report Junk to send it to Apple.

This won’t always block every spammer, but it helps Apple filter them in the future.

Use a Third-Party App Like Signal

If you prefer an encrypted messaging app like Signal, you can also block contacts there.

Open the conversation in Signal.
Tap the contact name at the top.
Tap Block User (or Block Group, if applicable).
Confirm by tapping Block.

Once blocked, Signal will show a message in the chat thread that the person is blocked.