If you’re like most people, you’re probably sick of spam texts. Even though there are laws about it, they’re still a huge problem. They contribute to smishing and other online scams.
Have you ever wondered if you could stop sending me messages? It’s a good question, since these texts are more than just annoying. They can lead to phishing attempts, malware downloads, and even vishing, which is when scammers try to trick you over the phone.
These messages often contain links that are suspicious. If you click on them, they can steal your information.
So, what can you do? How can you reclaim your inbox and stop these annoying texts from polluting your phone?
This article will provide you with actionable advice on how to block, report, and filter spam on iPhones and Androids. We’ll also go over some things you can do to protect your privacy and prevent these unwanted messages from reaching you in the first place. Getting rid of those spam texts may be easier than you think!
Blocking Spam Texters
Annoying, right? But you don’t have to put up with it. Blocking toxic people is a good first step. Here’s how to take action.
How to Block Spam Texts on iPhone
Apple makes it pretty straightforward to shut down unwanted texts.
- Block a number directly from the Messages app:
- Open the message from the spam number.
- Tap the sender’s number or contact icon at the top of the screen.
- Select “info,” then tap the phone number again.
- Choose “Block this Caller.”
- Filter unknown senders:
- Go to Settings > Messages > Filter Unknown Senders.
- This will filter messages from numbers not in your contacts into a separate tab, so you don’t even have to see them unless you want to.
Advantages of blocking on iPhone:
- Prevents future messages from that specific number.
- Simple and quick to implement.
How to Block Spam Texts on Android
Android offers similar capabilities to iPhone, though the steps can vary slightly depending on your device and Android version.
- Block a number directly from the Messages app:
- Open the message from the spam number.
- Tap the three dots in the upper right corner.
- Select “Block number” (the wording may vary slightly depending on your Android version).
- Use the phone app to block:
- Open the Phone app.
- Go to Recent Calls and select the spam number.
- Tap the “i” icon or three dots, then select “Block.”
Advantages of blocking on Android:
- Directly blocks the sender from contacting you again.
- Available on most Android devices.
Reporting Spam Texts
Ugh, spam texts. Nobody wants them. Luckily, you can take a stand! Here’s how to report those annoying messages, depending on whether you’re an iPhone or Android user.
How to Report Spam Texts on iPhone
Apple gives you a few ways to fight back against spam.
- Reporting via the Messages app (if available): Some carriers are on the ball and include a “Report Junk” option right in the Messages app. If you see it, tap it and follow the instructions. Easy peasy.
- Forwarding to 7726 (SPAM): This is a universal trick that works on almost any phone.
- Copy the spam text message.
- Create a new text message and address it to 7726.
- Paste the spam text into the new message and send it.
Your carrier will analyze the message and hopefully block the source.
- Reporting through iMessage: Getting spam from another iMessage user? Apple wants to know!
- Open the conversation.
- Tap the contact at the top of the screen.
- Select “Report Junk.”
How to Report Spam Texts on Android Devices
Android users have similar options for fighting back.
- Reporting via the Messages app (if available): Just like on iPhones, some Android messaging apps have a built-in “Report Spam” feature. Poke around in the app’s menu; you should find it without too much trouble.
- Forwarding to 7726 (SPAM): The same forwarding trick works on Android:
- Copy the spam text message.
- Create a new text message and address it to 7726.
- Paste the spam text into the new message and send it.
- Reporting through Google Messages: If you use Google Messages, it may have its own reporting options. Look for prompts or menu options within the app to report the conversation directly to Google.
Reporting spam texts is a small thing, but if we all do it, we can make a difference in cleaning up the messaging ecosystem!
Enable those spam filters!
Your phone has some built-in tools to help you manage the influx of spam texts. Here’s how to find them:
How to Filter Spam Texts on iPhone
The iPhone has a “Filter Unknown Senders” feature.
- Go to Settings > Messages > Filter Unknown Senders.
- Enable the feature.
This will separate messages from senders who aren’t in your contacts into a separate tab.
The downside? You might miss legitimate messages from new contacts. You’ll have to remember to check the “Unknown Senders” tab regularly.
How to Stop Spam Texts on Android
Android’s Google Messages app has built-in spam protection.
- Open Google Messages.
- Tap your profile icon.
- Go to Messages settings > Spam protection.
- Make sure “Enable spam protection” is turned on.
This feature automatically detects and filters many spam messages, and it gets better over time as users report spam.
Consider Third-Party Spam Protection Apps
If the built-in features aren’t cutting it, you might consider third-party apps like Norton Mobile Security, Truecaller, and Nomorobo.
These apps often offer more advanced filtering and blocking features, and they may provide additional security features beyond just spam filtering.
Keep in mind that these apps may require a subscription fee, and you’ll need to grant them access to your messages and contacts.
Protecting Your Privacy from Scammers and Hackers
It’s frustrating to receive unwanted messages, especially when they’re from scammers or hackers. Here are a few things you can do to protect your privacy and reduce the number of spam texts and calls you receive:
- Be careful about sharing your phone number. Don’t give your number to people you don’t know or to sources you don’t trust. Think twice before entering your phone number into an online form or survey.
- Read the fine print. Always read the privacy policy before giving your phone number to any website. Opt out of marketing communications if you don’t want to receive promotional messages.
- Don’t click suspicious links. Never click on a link in a text message from someone you don’t know. These links could take you to phishing sites or download malware onto your phone.
- Don’t reply to spam. Responding to a spam text confirms that your number is active, which could lead to even more spam.
Staying vigilant about your privacy can help you avoid unwanted messages and protect yourself from scams and hacks.
What to Do If You Get Spam Texts
Ugh, spam texts. We all hate them, but they’re a fact of modern life. Here’s what to do when those annoying messages pop up:
- Don’t Respond Directly to a Spam Text. I know it’s tempting to tell them to bugger off, but replying just confirms that your number is active and real. Even if the text says “Reply STOP to unsubscribe,” resist the urge! There may be other methods to legally tell someone to stop contacting you.
- Don’t Click Suspicious Links. This is super important. Those links can lead to all sorts of trouble, from phishing scams designed to steal your personal information to malware that can infect your phone. If you’re even slightly unsure about a link, don’t click it. Instead, manually type the website address into your browser to make sure you’re going to the real deal.
- Report the Spam Text. Help fight the good fight! Forward the spam text to 7726 (SPAM) – this reports it to your carrier. Then, block the number so they can’t bother you again.
By following these simple steps, you can minimize the spam texts you receive and protect yourself from potential scams.
Listing Your Number on the National Do Not Call Registry
The National Do Not Call Registry is a service designed to block telemarketing calls. Although it’s primarily for calls, it can help reduce the number of unwanted texts you get, too.
To register your phone number, go to the official National Do Not Call Registry website (donotcall.gov) and follow the instructions there.
It’s worth noting that the registry is most effective for legitimate businesses. Scammers and illegal telemarketers often ignore the registry, so you may still receive unwanted messages even after registering. But it’s a good step to take!
FAQs About Spam Texts
- Why am I getting spam texts?
- Your number might have been harvested from online forms or leaked in a data breach. Sometimes, spammers just automatically generate random phone numbers and send messages to all of them.
- What is 7726, and how does it work?
- 7726, or SPAM, is a short code that mobile carriers use to collect spam text messages. When you forward a spam text to 7726, your carrier analyzes the message and takes action against the spammer.
- What happens after I report a spam text to 7726?
- Your carrier looks at the messages people report to identify spam patterns and sources. They might block the spammer’s number or take other steps to stop them from sending more spam.
- Is it OK to read spam texts?
- It’s usually safe to read a spam text, but never click on any links or give out any personal information! Watch out for messages that try to pressure you into doing something right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I stop someone from sending messages?
There are several ways to stop someone from sending you messages, depending on the platform and your relationship with the sender. On most social media platforms, you can block the person. This prevents them from seeing your profile, sending you messages, or interacting with your posts. You can also mute them, which means you won’t see their messages or posts, but they won’t know you’ve muted them. For text messages, you can block the number on your phone. Additionally, many email providers offer features to block senders or filter their emails into a spam folder. If you’re receiving unwanted messages from a business, look for an “unsubscribe” link or instructions on how to opt-out of future communications.
How do you tell someone to stop sending messages?
The best approach depends on your relationship with the person and the nature of the messages. If you feel comfortable, a direct and assertive approach is often effective. Sometimes all it takes are the right words to say ‘don’t contact me again’. Clearly state that you don’t want to receive any more messages from them. Be polite but firm, and avoid ambiguity. For example, you could say, “I appreciate you reaching out, but I’m no longer interested in receiving messages from you.” If you’re dealing with someone who is persistent or harassing, it might be best to avoid direct communication and instead block or report them. If you feel threatened or unsafe, contact law enforcement.
Summary
Staying vigilant and taking proactive steps is essential to protect yourself from spam texts and online scams. Regularly check your security settings and be careful about who you give your phone number to.
Key steps you can take to fight back against spam texts include blocking spam numbers, reporting suspicious messages to your carrier, and turning on spam filters on your devices. Protect your privacy by being cautious about sharing your phone number and by avoiding clicking on suspicious links in text messages.
The fight against spam is never-ending. Spammers constantly come up with new tactics to try to trick you into giving them your personal information. By staying informed and using the tools and techniques described in this article, you can significantly reduce the amount of spam you receive and protect yourself from online threats. It’s an ongoing battle, but one you can win with the right approach.