To stop spam text messages, use your phone’s built-in filtering, blocking and reporting tools. On iPhone, Messages may offer Filter Unknown Senders and Report Junk depending on iOS version, carrier and region. On Android, Google Messages provides spam protection and reporting controls on supported devices. Do not reply to suspicious texts or tap their links.
Did you know that many common technical problems have several different solutions depending on the device, software version and what you need to protect? Start with the specific task, make the smallest appropriate change and check the outcome before going further.
At a glance: Identify the exact device and problem, use the built-in controls or an approved application, verify any permissions or security consequences, and test the result. Keep a record of important information before making irreversible changes.
Spam versus legitimate notifications
A promotional text from a company you recognise is different from a fraudulent message impersonating a bank or delivery company. Legitimate senders may offer official preference settings. For scams, use built-in reporting and do not follow links or call numbers supplied in the message.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Filter unknown senders on iPhone
On supported iOS versions, open Settings and locate Messages filtering controls, including Screen Unknown Senders or Filter Unknown Senders. Apple’s menu locations vary across versions. Filtering organises messages; it does not guarantee every scam will be blocked.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Report junk in iPhone Messages
For eligible messages, Apple provides Report Junk or Delete and Report Junk. Availability depends on the sender and carrier. Use the built-in option when shown, rather than forwarding private message contents to an unknown number.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Block a sender on iPhone
Open the conversation, inspect sender information and choose Block Caller or the available blocking control. This helps stop messages from that contact but may not prevent future scams from new numbers or spoofed senders.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Spam protection in Google Messages
Google Messages offers spam protection and reporting features on supported Android phones. Open the app’s settings to inspect Spam protection, and use Report spam on suspicious conversations. The exact menu depends on the device and app version.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Block numbers on Android
Open the suspicious conversation in the messaging app and choose the available Block or Block and report spam action. Samsung and other manufacturers may use different menus. Avoid installing untrusted blocking apps that demand extensive message access.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Do not click suspicious links
Texts about missed deliveries, unpaid tolls, banking restrictions or urgent account verification can be phishing attempts. Open the official company’s app or type its known address yourself instead of using the link in the text.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Never share one-time codes
A legitimate one-time passcode is meant for your own sign-in. Never give it to a person who contacts you unexpectedly, even if they claim to represent your bank, delivery company or mobile provider.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Why blocking one number may not solve it
Spam senders can rotate numbers, use short codes or spoof sender information. Reporting and filtering can reduce nuisance, but no single block guarantees that all future messages stop.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
SMS versus messaging apps
SMS, RCS, iMessage, WhatsApp and other messaging services have different reporting and privacy controls. Blocking in one app does not automatically block every channel. Identify where the unwanted messages are arriving.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
When a legitimate company keeps texting
Use the company’s verified website or app to change marketing preferences. If local regulations provide a recognised opt-out mechanism, follow official guidance. Do not assume replying STOP to a suspicious unknown sender is always safe.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Protect yourself after clicking a scam link
If you opened a suspicious link but did not enter information, close it and avoid downloading files. If you entered a password or payment information, use the real provider’s official recovery and fraud-reporting process promptly.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Worked example: fake parcel delivery
A text claims a parcel cannot be delivered until you pay a small fee. Do not tap the payment link. Open the delivery company’s official app or website and check the tracking number independently. Report the message as junk.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Worked example: bank impersonation
A message threatens account suspension and requests an OTP. Do not provide it. Use the bank’s official app or published contact number to verify the claim. If money or credentials were exposed, seek urgent assistance from the bank.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Privacy of third-party filtering apps
Some apps request access to message content or sender information. Review permissions and privacy terms before installing. Built-in reporting and carrier-supported controls are a sensible first step.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Official guidance
Apple explains recognising phishing and scams and blocking and filtering messages. Google documents spam protection in Messages.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Frequently asked questions
Can I block all spam texts?
No filter guarantees complete prevention, but reporting and blocking can reduce unwanted messages.
Does blocking a number stop spoofed senders?
Not necessarily. Scammers may use different or forged sender details.
Should I reply STOP to spam?
Use recognised opt-outs for legitimate senders; avoid responding to obvious scams.
Can I report a suspicious iPhone text?
Yes, when Report Junk is offered; availability varies.
Does Android have spam protection?
Google Messages and some other apps provide spam detection and reporting controls.
What if I entered bank details?
Contact the bank immediately through its official channel and follow its fraud guidance.
The useful takeaway
Choose the safest method that accomplishes the intended result, verify it works, and avoid exposing private information. If the interface differs, use the linked official instructions for your current software version.
Reviewed November 2026. Features and menus may change with software updates.