Blocked Numbers Keep Texting on iPhone: What to Do?

Do you have a blocked number that still annoys you with texts on your iPhone? That’s because even though blocking generally prevents contact, glitches can allow blocked callers to still ring through. So, in this article, we are going to teach you some tips on how you can successfully stay away from them!

Blocking A Number On Your iPhone

We’ve all dealt with persistent callers and texters that won’t take a hint. While blocking them may seem like the solution, their texts and calls don’t always disappear. Let’s walk through what typically happens when you block contacts on an iPhone.

Blocked text messages disappear

Blocking on iPhone prevents iMessages from reaching you, giving the illusion of quiet. However, regular green text messages sent via SMS may go through from blocked contacts unless carrier blocking is also enabled.

Blocked FaceTime calls keep ringing

Blocking stops FaceTime video but oddly not the audio call itself. Blocked FaceTime attempts will ring repeatedly on your end with no way to reject or end them. Very disruptive!

Blocked phone calls go to voicemail

Blocking sends incoming calls from selected contacts straight to voicemail. They won’t know you blocked them, only that you aren’t answering. Of course, they can still leave annoying voicemails.

Why You May Still Get Messages From Blocked Contacts

Imagine your ex keeps messaging nonstop even after being told to stop. Blocking them should prevent this headache, right? Unfortunately, it’s not always so simple.

Group Chats Provide A Loophole

If you block someone but stay part of a group chat with them, they can message you through the group. Leaving the chat is key for full blocking.

iCloud Sync Can Undo Blocking

Blocking a number on one Apple device may sync across iCloud and undo blocking set separately on another device.

Contact Details Updates Reconnect Blocked Numbers

If a blocked contact changes phone numbers and updates you with new info, their new number will no longer be blocked automatically.

Temporary Unblocking Allows Texts Through

If you temporarily unblock a contact, messages sent during that window still reach you even when re-blocking.

How To Stop Blocked Numbers From Texting You On iPhone?

Don’t want them ruining your day? We get it – let’s get tech-savvy and teach you how to keep them away once and for all:  

Double Check Your Block List

Open Settings > Messages/Phone > Blocked and ensure the number is actually listed. Glitches can remove blocked contacts so verify and re-add.

Creative Blocking Combos

Combine blocking at iPhone and carrier levels for a layered defense. Add their emails to spam filters too.

Group Chat Eviction

Kick the blocked contact out of any groups you remain in – because their texts will reach you there regardless.

Temporarily Unblock to Reset

Briefly unblock then re-block the number to update the blocking infrastructure and close gaps.

Try Third-Party Apps

Use a third-party app like Burner. Apps like Burner let you acquire temporary new phone numbers. For instance, if you’re dealing with someone harassing or bothering you, using a temporary number lets you communicate without them knowing your real contact details. 

However, if you’ve already blocked them on your real number, the app may not provide much additional benefit in that case. This app comes into play when you want to interact with someone temporarily without exposing your actual number.

Report as Spam

Mark their texts and voicemails as Junk/Spam to train filters to auto-delete any communication. Simple as that.

Update iOS

Install the latest iOS update which may contain fixes for blocking bugs and loopholes. Keep your software current.

Contact Your Carrier

Your cellular provider can block at the network level to stop all texts and calls completely. Send an email or call them requesting a number block.