How to Block International Calls on iPhone?

Are you fed up with unwanted international calls? These calls are often scams, disrupt your peace, and pose security risks. One common scam, highlighted by the FCC, is the 'One-Ring' scam. Here, scammers call your phone and hang up after one ring. If you call back, you could be charged exorbitant fees per minute.

We want to help you avoid these situations. So come with us and learn how to manage and block international phone calls on your iPhone in different ways to prevent such scams.

Using Built-in Call Settings to Block Incoming International Calls

Firstly let's get to know all the built-in  ways through which you can block international phone calls on your iPhone;

1. Block a Specific International Call

The easiest and quickest method for blocking international phone calls is through your Phone app. In this way, you can block all those specific unknown international numbers that have been disturbing you.

Step 1. Go to your iPhone's 'Phone' app.

Step 2. Go to the 'Recent' tab and find the international number you want to block.

Step 3. Click on the 'i' icon located on the right side of the phone number.

Step 4. Scroll to the bottom and block the number by clicking 'Block Caller.'

2. Silence Unknown International Numbers

In this built-in method, you cannot completely block unknown international phone numbers; instead, you can silence their calls so they do not disturb you. This method suits those who want to avoid marketing or scam calls while keeping communication open for important or expected calls. Also, calls from your contacts and recent outgoing calls will still ring as usual.

Step 1. In your iPhone's 'Settings', scroll down and tap 'App' > 'Phone.'

Step 2. Scroll a bit down and click on 'Silence Unknown Callers' and here you can turn it ON.

Note: When you turn on 'Silence Unknown Callers,' unknown numbers, including international ones, will be silenced. However, keep in mind that some new calls might also be silenced if you haven't saved them in your contacts.

3. Block International Spam Calls

If you are more concerned about your iPhone's call privacy then this method is for you.

For this you have to use third-party apps; RoboKiller, Truecaller, Hiya, and Call Control are some good options you can use. These third-party apps detect and block spam international calls and keep you safe from international phone calling scams. Let's see how you can use these third-party apps;

Step 1. Firstly, go to App Store, search the spam-blocking app you like and download it.

Step 2. Once downloaded, in your iPhone's 'Settings', go to 'App' > 'Phone.'

Step 3. Find 'Call Blocking & Identification' and click on it.

Step 4. Here, you can turn ON the Apps to activate call protection against international unknown, noisy, and spam calls.

Using Mobile Carrier Tools to Block Outgoing International Calls

You can't directly block outgoing international calls on your iPhone. To do this, you'll need assistance from your mobile carrier. Here, we'll discuss three major carriers, such as:

1. AT&T

AT&T restricts your ability to make international phone calls through your iPhone so that you don't have to face any unreasonable charges. Let's see how to use this provider for your concerned purpose;

Step 1. You have to make an account at myAT&T. For this click here myAT&T.

Step 1. Once you have signed in, click 'My digital phone.'

Step 2. Under My voicemail & phone features, click on 'Phone Features.'

Step 3. Scroll down a bit and in 'Outgoing calls', click on 'International Call Blocking', and turn it ON.

Step 4. Lastly, 'Save' your changes.

2. T-Mobile

T-Mobile helps you block outgoing international calls but you can not do this online. You have to request a block on your line through T-Mobile customer service. You can both temporarily and permanently block your outgoing calls on your iPhone.

Here is T-Mobile contact information; 1-877-746-0909

3. Verizon

To block international calls using Verizon, you have to contact their customer service. By activating 'Blocking outgoing international calls' you can prevent unauthorized international calls and save yourself from expensive charges.

You can call at 611 and request the representative to block international outgoing calling.

Extra Tips: How Can You Tell Which International Calls to Be Wary Of

1. Check Phone Prefixes

Checking the phone call prefix can give you a quick clue about where an international call is coming from. If you get a call from a number with a prefix from another country and aren't expecting to hear from someone in that country, it might just be an advertising call or even a potential scam.

For example, prefixes like Sierra Leone's country code +232 and Türkiye's code +90 are often used by scammers and are considered red flags.

Check here to see some phone prefixes you need to be aware of.

2. Use Apps That Can Detect and Block Calls

You can use reputable spam-blocking apps to avoid and filter suspicious calls, like TrueCaller or Hiya.

In addition, some countries have official anti-scam apps, such as Singapore's ScamShield. Developed by the government and related agencies, this app helps users on iOS and Android check and report suspicious communications, making it easier to spot scam calls.

3. Use Reverse Phone Number Lookup Tools

You can also use online tools like Truecaller or IPQS to verify unknown international phone numbers. These tools can provide information about the caller, including user-reported tags like "scam" or "telemarketer." However, while these tools can be helpful, they may not always have information on every number, especially newly created scam numbers.

4. Verify the Caller's Claims

If you receive an international call claiming urgency, such as a request for money or personal information, take steps to verify the caller's identity. You can ask for their name, organization, and a callback number. Then, independently verify this information through official channels before taking any action. Be especially cautious if they ask for sensitive information like bank details or passwords.

Key Takeaway

Receiving international calls on your iPhone can cause unnecessary distractions and even bring the great risk of scams. Thus blocking international calls is the best way you can avoid distractions and prevent unreasonable scams.

From using built-in iPhone blocking or silencing features to using trusted apps and mobile carriers, you can add a layer of protection regarding your phone call and avoid the tricks of scammers.