Phishing texts, or smishing, are deceptive messages designed to steal personal information. In 2024, Americans received approximately 19.2 billion scam texts, averaging 63 fake texts per person monthly. (makeuseof.com) To protect yourself, consider the following apps:
1. Textkiller – Spam Text Blocker
Developed by Robokiller, Textkiller focuses on filtering unwanted texts, blocking messages from unknown senders, and identifying spam texts in less than 0.01 seconds. (airdroid.com)
2. Truecaller
Truecaller is a widely used caller ID and communication management application that identifies incoming calls by matching against its crowdsourced database of known spam numbers. It integrates seamlessly with text blocking, allowing users to silence unwanted messages from known spammers or manually add them to their block list. (airdroid.com)
3. VeroSMS
VeroSMS is a free app that filters texts through keywords, allowing users to copy and paste the spam texts they're receiving and send them to a junk folder. It also offers a crowdsourced keyword list for specific regions to keep up with current spammer trends. (makeuseof.com)
4. Google Messages (Android)
Google Messages provides built-in spam detection that identifies and filters scam text messages. It also supports RCS, offering verified sender information for businesses. (isthisascam.to)
5. iMessage + Filter Unknown Senders (iPhone)
iPhone users can enable the "Filter Unknown Senders" feature in iMessage settings, which separates messages from unknown numbers into a separate tab, helping to reduce unwanted texts. (isthisascam.to)
6. RealCall
RealCall is an AI-based app that detects, engages, and blocks spam calls and SMS messages. It uses AI algorithms with a built-in reverse phone lookup service and customized answer bots for detection, engagement, and blocking of unwanted calls and messages. (en.wikipedia.org)
7. AntiNuisance
AntiNuisance is a lightweight app that allows users to manually set up spam defenses using a whitelist and blacklist. Users can blacklist SMS messages from specific numbers or names and set blacklisted words to catch messages sent by particular companies. (makeuseof.com)
8. Key Messages
Key Messages lets users block texts from specific senders, number series, or those containing certain words. It automatically scans the inbox to identify and hide spam messages, with options to whitelist contacts and customize blocking settings. (makeuseof.com)
9. Bouncer
Bouncer is a free iPhone app that sends spam texts to designated folders, such as junk or promotions. It filters messages based on user-defined criteria and offers a simple interface without advertisements. (avg.com)
10. SMS Shield
SMS Shield is a machine-learning-based spam filtering app that works offline on your device. It uses machine learning to identify and block spam messages, providing real-time protection against phishing attempts. (makeuseof.com)
Conclusion
Protecting yourself from phishing texts is crucial in today's digital age. Apps like Textkiller, Truecaller, and VeroSMS offer robust solutions to filter and block unwanted messages. By utilizing these tools, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to smishing attacks.
Highlights:
- The 5 Best Spam-Blocking Apps | WhistleOut, Published on Wednesday, May 15
- 3 Effective SMS Spam Blocking Apps for iPhone, Published on Monday, January 03
- Top 6 Apps to Block Text Message [Trusted] – AirDroid, Published on Wednesday, February 26
