How to Stop Spam and Unwanted Text Messages on Your Smartphone

Unwanted text messages are more than just a nuisance—they can also be a security risk. Whether you’re receiving spam messages on your Android or iPhone, knowing how to block them is essential. In this guide, we’ll cover the steps you can take to stop junk texts and regain control of your messaging inbox.

We’ll specifically address the following questions: How to block spam messages on Android? How to stop unwanted text messages on iPhone? How do you stop unwanted texts on iPhone? How to stop junk texts on iPhone?

Why You’re Receiving Spam Text Messages

Spam messages often come from automated systems known as bots. These messages are typically sent in bulk and may contain:

Phishing links designed to steal your personal information.
Promises of fake prizes or promotions.
Scams urging immediate action, such as paying a bill or verifying account details.

Understanding why these messages reach you is the first step in combating them:

Your number may have been shared with marketers or scammers.
Publicly visible phone numbers (on social media or websites) are prime targets.
Apps or services you’ve signed up for may have sold your contact information.

How to Block Spam Messages on Android

If you’re using an Android device, there are multiple ways to block spam messages. Here’s how:

1. Use the Built-In Messaging App

Most Android phones come with built-in spam filtering tools:

Block a specific number:Open the Messages app.Find the conversation from the spam sender.Tap the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.Select Block & report spam (the exact wording may vary by device).
Enable spam protection:Open the Messages app.Tap the three-dot menu and go to Settings.Select Spam protection and toggle it on.

2. Use a Third-Party App

Apps like Truecaller, Hiya, or RoboKiller are excellent for blocking spam messages and calls:

Download the app from the Google Play Store.
Grant necessary permissions to filter messages.
Customize blocking rules for unknown or suspicious numbers.

3. Report Spam to Your Carrier

Some mobile carriers provide tools to report spam messages:

Forward the spam text to 7726 (SPAM) in the U.S.
Your carrier may use the information to block similar messages in the future.

4. Avoid Clicking on Links

Even if the message looks legitimate, avoid clicking any links in spam messages. Doing so can lead to phishing websites or malware.

How to Stop Unwanted Text Messages on iPhone

Apple’s iPhones come with several built-in features to help users block and manage spam messages. Follow these steps to keep your inbox free of unwanted texts:

1. Block a Number in iMessage

To block a specific sender:

Open the conversation in the Messages app.
Tap the sender’s name or number at the top of the screen.
Select Info → Block this Caller.
Confirm by tapping Block Contact.

2. Filter Messages from Unknown Senders

This feature sends texts from numbers not saved in your contacts to a separate folder:

Go to Settings → Messages.
Toggle on Filter Unknown Senders.
Open the Messages app and navigate to the Unknown Senders tab to review filtered messages.

3. Enable Silence Unknown Callers

This feature works for texts and calls:

Go to Settings → Phone.
Turn on Silence Unknown Callers.

4. Use Third-Party Apps

Apple allows third-party apps to filter spam messages:

Download apps like RoboKiller or Hiya from the App Store.
Go to Settings → Messages → Unknown & Spam.
Select the third-party app under the SMS Filtering section.

How Do You Stop Unwanted Texts on iPhone?

Stopping unwanted texts involves more than blocking numbers. To ensure a spam-free experience, follow these additional tips:

1. Don’t Respond to Spam Messages

Responding confirms that your number is active, encouraging more spam.
Avoid replying, even with phrases like “STOP,” unless you’re certain it’s a legitimate opt-out request (e.g., from a subscribed service).

2. Report Messages

Report spam directly to Apple by forwarding the message to 7726 (SPAM).
In the Messages app, you may also see a Report Junk option when a message is from an unknown sender.

3. Turn Off Message Previews

Previews can display spam content on your lock screen:Go to Settings → Notifications → Messages.Toggle off Show Previews or set it to When Unlocked.

4. Review Subscriptions

Check apps and services you’ve signed up for. Revoke permissions for any service sharing your number with third parties.

How to Stop Junk Texts on iPhone

If you’re plagued by junk texts, here’s a comprehensive plan to tackle them:

Step 1: Use Apple’s “Report Junk” Feature

When you receive a message from an unknown sender, look for the Report Junk option below the message.
Tapping this option sends the number and message to Apple and your carrier for review.

Step 2: Enable DND (Do Not Disturb) Mode

Use Do Not Disturb mode to silence all notifications:Go to Settings → Focus → Do Not Disturb.Customize allowed notifications to include only contacts.

Step 3: Regularly Update iOS

Keep your device updated to ensure you have the latest spam-blocking features:Go to Settings → General → Software Update.Install any available updates.

Step 4: Use Carrier Services

Major carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile offer spam-blocking services:Enable these features through your carrier’s app or website.

Pro Tips for Both Android and iPhone Users

1. Use Strong Privacy Settings

Limit who can find you using your phone number:On Android: Go to Settings → Privacy → Phone Number Settings.On iPhone: Go to Settings → Messages → Share Name and Photo and toggle off unnecessary sharing.

2. Avoid Public Sharing of Your Number

Don’t post your phone number on social media, forums, or websites.
Use a secondary number or virtual phone number for online sign-ups.

3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Use 2FA to add an extra layer of security to your accounts, reducing the chances of your number being compromised.

4. Educate Yourself on Common Scams

Stay informed about new types of spam and phishing attacks.

Conclusion

Dealing with spam and unwanted text messages can be frustrating, but with the right tools and strategies, you can take control of your inbox. Whether you’re using an Android device or an iPhone, steps like blocking numbers, using filtering features, and leveraging third-party apps can help reduce the flood of unwanted texts.

By understanding how to block spam messages on Android, how to stop unwanted text messages on iPhone, how do you stop unwanted texts on iPhone, and how to stop junk texts on iPhone, you’ll be well-equipped to manage spam effectively. Keep your phone updated, protect your number, and use the built-in features to ensure a hassle-free messaging experience.