While telcos may be doing their part to stop spam texts, there are also easy ways for users to protect themselves from such scams.
 |
Sample of text scams |
Steps to take vs spam texts
May you are an iOS or Android user, there is a very accessible way for you to block those unwanted text messages.
For iPhone users who have updated to iOS 16, here are the ways how you can activate your wall of protection.
- Tap the Messages app
- Select the conversation from the text spam then tap the name or number at the top of the conversation
- Tap info then scroll down until you see Block this Caller
To view and manage your block list:
- Go to Settings
- Tap Messages
- Tap Blocked Contacts
In your iPhone, you can also filter messages from unknown senders. Through this, you also will not get notifications from them.
- Go to Settings
- Tap Message
- Go to Message Filtering
- Turn on Filter Unknown Senders
When this is activated, you can access unknown contacts through Unknown Senders under the Filters folder.
In iMessage, spam messages can be reported to Apple:
- In the Messages app, press and hold the message
- Tap Report Junk
Or:
If you have opened the message and the person is unlisted in your contacts, scroll to the bottom and then tap Report Junk
Tap Delete and Report Junk
The sender's information and message are sent to Apple. However, note that reporting junk or spam does not prevent the sender from sending messages. Blocking still has to be done.
For Android users, here is a step-by-step guide to filter spam messages according to Tom’s Guide:
- Open the Google Messages app, then tap the three dots at the upper right corner
- Tap Spam protection
- Turn on Enable spam protection
Note that this only works using Google Messages which is immediately available on Pixel devices. If using other Android phones, download the Google Messages app.
To block spam texts:
- Open the spam text then tap the three dots on the upper right
- Tap Add the blocklist
Android users can also report these unwanted messages directly to telcos or authorities.
For other ways how you can protect yourself against text scammers, know more
here.
What do you think about this?
Post a Comment