How to Block Spam Texts on Your Personal Phone

Spam text messages, or "robotexts," are unsolicited messages that can clutter your inbox and pose security risks. Fortunately, there are several methods to block these unwanted texts on your personal phone.

What Are Spam Texts and Why Are They a Concern?

Spam texts are unsolicited messages sent to your phone, often for advertising or malicious purposes. They can lead to phishing attacks, malware infections, and identity theft. Recognizing and blocking these messages is crucial for your digital security.

How Can I Block Spam Texts on My iPhone?

Enable Built-in Spam Filtering:

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

This feature separates messages from unknown senders into a separate list, reducing spam in your main inbox. (techradar.com)

Report Spam Messages:

When you receive a spam text, tap Report Junk below the message. This helps Apple improve its spam detection. (mcafee.com)

How Can I Block Spam Texts on My Android Phone?

Use Built-in Spam Protection:

1. Open the Messages app.
2. Tap the three-dot menu > Settings > Spam protection.
3. Enable Enable spam protection.

This feature alerts you to potential spam messages. (techradar.com)

Block Specific Numbers:

1. Open the spam message.
2. Tap the three-dot menu > Details > Block & report spam.

This action blocks the sender and reports them as spam. (makeuseof.com)

How Can I Use My Carrier's Services to Block Spam Texts?

Report Spam to Your Carrier:

Forward the spam text to 7726 (SPAM). This helps carriers identify and block spam sources. (mcafee.com)

Carrier-Specific Blocking Services:

• AT&T: Offers spam protection features in the Messages app. (att.com)

• Verizon: Provides tools to block messages from specific numbers and report spam. (verizon.com)

How Can I Use Third-Party Apps to Block Spam Texts?

RoboKiller:

RoboKiller is a leading app that blocks 95% of unwanted text messages and robocalls. It also allows you to report spammers directly from the app. (hp.com)

Spam Blocker:

Spam Blocker is an award-winning app for Android that uses machine learning to block unsolicited texts based on number, keywords, and other customizable rules. (hp.com)

What Are Some Additional Tips to Prevent Spam Texts?

• Be Cautious with Your Phone Number: Limit sharing your number to trusted sources.

• Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Links: Do not click on links in unsolicited texts.

• Educate Yourself About Phishing Scams: Stay informed about common scams to recognize them.

By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the number of spam texts you receive and enhance your mobile security.

Highlights:

• Authorities Issue Warnings Over Multistate DMV Scam Texts. Here's What to Look Out For, Published on Sunday, June 01