How to Stop Call Bombing on iPhone and Android

When your phone will not stop ringing, you need a fast fix and a lasting one. This guide covers both for iPhone and Android. Menu names change slightly between phone models and software versions, so if a setting is not exactly where described, search for the setting name in your phone’s Settings app.

First: Stay Calm and Do Not Engage

Answering unknown calls can confirm to an automated system that your number is active, and calling back may connect you to a premium-rate or scam line. Let the calls go unanswered while you set up the protections below. If you want background on what is happening, read What Is Call Bombing?.

How to Stop Call Bombing on iPhone

  1. Screen or silence unknown callers. On current versions of iOS, go to Settings, then Apps, then Phone, then Screen Unknown Callers, and choose Silence (or Ask Reason for Calling). On older versions, go to Settings, then Phone, then Silence Unknown Callers. Calls from numbers that are not in your contacts go to voicemail.
  2. Use a Focus mode. Open Settings, then Focus, and choose Do Not Disturb. Under allowed people, choose your contacts only, so only they can ring through.
  3. Block repeat numbers. Open the Phone app, tap Recents, tap the information icon next to the number and choose Block this Caller. You can review blocked numbers under Blocked Contacts in the Phone settings.
  4. Turn on call filtering. In the Phone settings, look for Call Filtering and switch on your carrier’s spam filter if it is offered. Also ask your carrier about spam protection on your account.

How to Stop Call Bombing on Android

  1. Turn on spam protection. Open the Phone app, go to its settings and look for Caller ID and spam. Switch on the option to filter or warn about spam calls.
  2. Use Do Not Disturb. Open Settings, then Notifications or Sound, find Do Not Disturb and allow calls from contacts only.
  3. Block numbers. In the Phone app, open Recents, tap the number and choose Block or Report spam. On many phones you can also find Blocked numbers in the Phone app settings.
  4. Check the carrier tools. Many carriers offer an app or service to screen suspected spam and nuisance calls.

On Samsung and some other brands the Phone app is made by the manufacturer, so the menu names can differ slightly. Look for the options named above under the Phone app settings.

Why Blocking Alone Often Fails

In a call flood the numbers frequently change, so blocking each one by hand may do little. Settings that handle all unknown callers, such as silencing unknown callers or Focus modes, are more reliable than a long block list. Carrier-level filtering can also help, because it works before the calls reach your phone.

Ask Your Carrier for Help

Call your mobile carrier from another phone if you need to, explain that you are receiving repeated unwanted calls and ask what protection they can add to your line. Depending on the carrier and country, options can include network call filtering, tracing nuisance calls or moving your number to a new SIM. Keep a record of when you called and who you spoke to.

Look After the Rest of Your Accounts

  • Check your email and bank accounts for anything unusual, in case the calls were meant as a distraction.
  • Switch on two-factor authentication with an authenticator app where you can.
  • Avoid entering your main number on sites you do not trust, and use a separate number for sign-ups where possible.

What to Do If It Does Not Stop

If the calls keep coming, or they include threats, keep a record of the dates, times and numbers and report it. Our guide on how to report SMS and call harassment explains who to contact. If you ever feel you are in immediate danger, contact your local emergency number.

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