How To Block Area Codes On iPhone

As a device of paramount importance in your life, your iPhone is undoubtedly an indispensable tool. However, with its widespread use comes the equally proliferating nuisance of unwanted calls and spam.

An increasing number of users have expressed concerns over repeated calls from specific area codes. If you’ve been plagued by this issue, you’re not alone, and there’s good news – there’s a solution!

Before we delve into the process, I recommend understanding that the iPhone, in its default settings, does not provide an option to block specific area codes. The built-in blocking feature is designed to handle individual numbers. This, unfortunately, leaves it ineffective against the barrage of calls that can come from any number within a specific area code.

But fear not, third-party applications come to our rescue here. Applications like WideProtect and Hiya offer us the ability to block entire area codes.

Enter WideProtect: A Versatile Solution

First on our list is WideProtect, a third-party application available on the App Store. It works by blocking calls from the area codes that you specify.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to set it up:

1. Open the App Store and search for ‘WideProtect’.
2. Click on ‘Get’ to download the app.
3. Once installed, open WideProtect.
4. Provide the app with necessary permissions to block calls.
5. Enter the area codes you want to block in the designated space and save the changes.

Hiya: Another Effective Alternative

Hiya is another application capable of blocking entire area codes. It also provides additional features like identifying spam and scam calls.

To use Hiya to block area codes:

1. Open the App Store and search for ‘Hiya’.
2. Click on ‘Get’ to download the app.
3. Open Hiya once it is installed.
4. Provide necessary permissions for the app to block calls.
5. Navigate to the ‘Block’ tab.
6. Enter the area codes you want to block.

Evaluating the Efficacy of the Chosen Solution

Once you’ve selected and set up a third-party app like WideProtect or Hiya, it’s important to evaluate their effectiveness. The desired outcome is, of course, a noticeable reduction in unwanted calls from the blocked area codes.

However, keep in mind that no solution is perfect. Spammers continually evolve their tactics, including “spoofing” numbers from other area codes.

It’s also possible that legitimate calls from the blocked area codes might be affected. Hence, I recommend being thoughtful about the area codes you decide to block.

Regularly Updating Your Blocked List

Over time, the landscape of spam calls can change. You might start receiving unwanted calls from new area codes. Therefore, I recommend regularly reviewing and updating your blocked area codes list.

Both WideProtect and Hiya allow you to easily update your blocked list. To update your list in WideProtect:

1. Open the WideProtect app.
2. Navigate to the “Block” section.
3. Add or remove area codes as needed.

The process is similar for Hiya:

1. Open the Hiya app.
2. Navigate to the “Block” tab.
3. Update your list of blocked area codes.

Considering Additional Measures

While blocking area codes can reduce the number of spam calls you receive, it’s not the only defense. Other actions can further protect you from unwanted calls.

• Reporting unwanted calls: If you’re in the U.S., you can report unwanted calls to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
• National Do Not Call Registry: Registering your number with the National Do Not Call Registry can help reduce telemarketing calls.
• Carrier-Specific Tools: Many carriers offer spam protection services. Check with your service provider to see what options are available.

The Bigger Picture: Enhancing Your iPhone’s Privacy

Blocking area codes is just one facet of improving your iPhone’s privacy. For comprehensive protection, consider other privacy settings and practices. These might include regularly updating your software, reviewing app permissions, and setting strong, unique passwords.

Remember, your iPhone is a powerful tool. It’s essential to keep it secure and private, making your digital world safer. Therefore, take the time to understand and leverage the privacy options available to you.

The landscape of privacy and security is ever-evolving, just like the world of technology. Staying informed and vigilant is the best defense. So, while this guide helps you block area codes, I recommend continuing to explore ways to enhance your iPhone’s privacy settings and your overall digital hygiene.

Conclusion

In the world of iPhones, there’s no direct way to block area codes. However, with third-party apps like WideProtect and Hiya, you can effectively solve this problem.

While it may not be the most straightforward solution, these apps help provide a spam-free and nuisance-free calling experience. Just remember to keep them running in the background, and they’ll take care of the rest.

FAQs

Can I block area codes on my iPhone without a third-party app?

No, iPhones do not natively support the blocking of area codes. You’ll need a third-party app like WideProtect or Hiya to do this.

Are there any free apps that can block area codes?

Yes, Hiya offers a basic free version that can block area codes. However, it also has a premium version with more comprehensive features.

Will these apps block text messages from the blocked area codes?

Yes, both WideProtect and Hiya can block text messages from the blocked area codes.

Can these apps block international calls?

Yes, both WideProtect and Hiya can block international calls. However, you need to enter the correct country code along with the area code to block.