Managing SEO Spam Calls: A Guide for iPhone Users

Intro

The world of digital marketing is thriving, but with that comes an unfortunate side effect—an overwhelming number of spam calls from SEO agencies, link-building services, and so-called "growth experts." If you've ever picked up the phone only to hear someone guaranteeing you a #1 Google ranking or thousands of backlinks, you’re not alone. These calls are more than just a nuisance; they waste your time, disrupt your work, and in some cases, can even lead to scams.

As a website owner, business professional, or marketer, you've likely had your number scooped up by lead generation companies or extracted from domain registration records. While some of these calls come from legitimate businesses, many are pushy, misleading, and completely unsolicited. Recognizing the tactics used and blocking these calls effectively is key to staying focused and protecting your personal information.

Why Are SEO Spam Calls Increasing?

Where Do These Calls Come From?

If you’re wondering how these spam callers got your number, here are the usual suspects:

• Your website’s contact page – Publicly listed phone numbers make easy targets.
• WHOIS records – If you haven’t enabled domain privacy, your registration details are visible to anyone.
• Lead generation companies – Some marketing firms sell phone numbers as part of mass contact lists.
• Automated dialers – Many spam calls come from robocall systems dialing through thousands of numbers per day.

The Role of Data Scraping Software

Software like X Ray Contact can be used to extract phone numbers from business websites and social media profiles, adding to the problem. Some SEO agencies employ these tools to create massive databases of potential leads, leading to non-stop spam calls. While the goal might be to sell you SEO services, the reality is that many of these calls are from low-quality agencies using questionable tactics.

How to Block SEO Spam Calls on Your iPhone

Sick of SEO cold calls? Here’s how to take back control.

1. Use iPhone’s Built-in Call Blocking Features

Apple provides several ways to reduce spam calls, and they’re easy to enable.

Silence Unknown Callers

• Navigate to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers and turn it on. Calls from numbers not in your contacts will go straight to voicemail.

Enable Focus Mode

• If spam calls are disrupting your work, activate Do Not Disturb or Focus Mode to filter out calls and allow only important contacts through.

Manually Block Persistent Callers

• Go to Phone > Recents, tap the (i) next to a spam number, and select Block this Caller.

2. Use Third-Party Call Blocking Apps

If iPhone’s built-in features aren’t cutting it, apps like these can help:

• Hiya – Identifies and blocks spam calls automatically.
• Truecaller – Maintains a database of known spam numbers.
• Robokiller – Uses AI to screen and block unwanted calls.
• Nomorobo – Great for stopping robocalls before they get through.

3. Register on the Do Not Call List

While not foolproof, adding your number to a national Do Not Call Registry can reduce legitimate marketing calls. Many SEO spammers ignore this, but it’s still worth trying.

4. Remove Your Number from Public Listings

Reduce your exposure by keeping your number private.

Use a Contact Form Instead of a Public Phone Number

• If your business requires contact by phone, consider using a web form instead.

Enable Domain Privacy Protection

• Protect your WHOIS information by purchasing domain privacy protection.

Update Business Listings

• Review online directories and remove or replace direct phone numbers where possible.

5. Report and Avoid Suspicious Calls

If you receive a spam call, be cautious:

• Do not engage – Many spammers use tactics to pressure you into buying services.
• Report the number – Use Apple’s built-in spam reporting or report numbers to your service provider.
• Be skeptical – Google and other major search engines do not call businesses offering SEO services.

Additional Protection Options

Leverage SEO Spam Detection Software

Tools like X Ray Contact allow you to track where your number is appearing online. If you notice your contact details are exposed, take steps to remove them.

Use Focus Mode for Better Filtering

• Enabling “Focus” mode during work hours can silence spam calls while allowing essential ones through.
• The “Silent for Unknowns” setting can prevent random callers from interrupting your day.

Final Thoughts

SEO spam calls are annoying, but you don’t have to put up with them. By using iPhone’s built-in call filtering, third-party blocking apps, and keeping your number private, you can dramatically cut down on interruptions.

And if you're looking for real SEO insights—without the spam calls—check out Ranktracker, where data-driven results speak louder than cold calls.