How can I block promotional text messages on my Android phone?

Open the Messages app, tap and hold the conversation from the sender you wish to block, select 'Block & report spam,' and confirm by tapping 'OK.'

What should I do if I receive a spam text message?

Do not engage with the message. Report it using your phone's built-in features or forward it to 7726 (SPAM), then delete the message from your device.

How to Block Promotional Texts on Your US Phone Today

Receiving unsolicited promotional text messages can be both annoying and intrusive. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to block these messages on your US phone. Here's how you can take control:

How Can I Block Promotional Texts on My Phone?

For Android Users:

Use Built-in Features:

Open the Messages app.
Tap and hold the conversation from the sender you wish to block.
Select Block & report spam.
Confirm by tapping OK.

This action blocks the sender and reports the message as spam, helping to reduce future unwanted texts. (androidauthority.com)

Enable Spam Protection:

Open the Messages app.
Tap the three-dot menu and select Settings.
Go to Spam protection and toggle it on.

This feature helps identify and filter out potential spam messages. (uscellular.com)

For iPhone Users:

Filter Unknown Senders:

Go to Settings > Messages.
Toggle on Filter Unknown Senders.

This separates messages from unknown senders into a separate tab, reducing interruptions. (mcafee.com)

Report Junk:

Open the message from the unknown sender.
Tap Report Junk below the message.

This action reports the message to Apple and deletes it from your device. (uscellular.com)

How Can My Carrier Help Block Promotional Texts?

Many US carriers offer services to help block unwanted text messages:

U.S. Cellular: Provides the SpamResponse app, which allows users to report spam messages and helps identify and block them. (uscellular.com)
T-Mobile: Offers Message Blocking, enabling users to block unwanted messages to and from their phones. (t-mobile.com)
Verizon: Provides Safeguards, allowing users to block incoming messages from specific email addresses or websites. (techwalla.com)
AT&T: Offers Message Preferences, enabling users to block incoming messages from websites, email addresses, and specific phone numbers. (techwalla.com)

Note: Carrier services may vary, and some features might incur additional charges. It's advisable to contact your carrier for specific details.

Are There Third-Party Apps to Block Promotional Texts?

Yes, several third-party apps can help block unwanted text messages:

RoboKiller: Claims to eliminate 95% of unwanted text messages and boasts over 11 million downloads with a 4.5-star rating from more than 320,000 reviewers. (hp.com)
Mr. Number: An award-winning app with millions of downloads and a 4-star rating from over 70,000 users. (hp.com)

Note: While these apps can be effective, always review app permissions and user reviews before installation.

How Can I Prevent Receiving Promotional Texts in the Future?

Opt-Out: Reply with STOP to unsubscribe from promotional messages. (help.ting.com)
Be Cautious with Your Number: Limit sharing your phone number online and in stores to minimize unwanted messages. (help.ting.com)
Register with the National Do Not Call Registry: While primarily for calls, it can also reduce some unwanted texts. (ncdoj.gov)

What Should I Do If I Receive a Spam Text?

Do Not Engage: Avoid replying or clicking on any links within the message.
Report the Message: Use your phone's built-in reporting features or forward the message to 7726 (SPAM). (uscellular.com)
Delete the Message: Remove the message from your device to prevent accidental engagement.

By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the number of promotional text messages you receive, enhancing your mobile experience.