Shielding Yourself from Spam: Blocking Texts on iPhone and Android

Unwanted text messages can be a nuisance. Whether it’s spam, marketing messages, or unwanted texts from a specific number, blocking them can bring peace to your inbox. Here’s a quick guide on how to silence those pesky texts on both iPhone and Android devices:

Banishing the Buzz on iPhone:

  1. Open the Messages App: Locate the green Messages app with the white chat bubble icon on your home screen or app library.

  2. Identify the Unwanted Text: Open the message thread from the number you want to block.

  3. Tap the Contact Name or Number: At the top of the message conversation, you’ll see the contact name or phone number. Tap on it.

  4. Block This Caller: Scroll down in the contact information menu and find the option “Block this Caller.” A pop-up confirmation will appear.

  5. Confirm Blocking: Tap “Block Contact” to confirm you want to block all future messages and calls from this number.

Android Arsenal Against Text Terror:

There are two main methods for blocking texts on Android devices, depending on your phone’s operating system version and the messaging app you use. Here are both methods:

Method 1: Using Your Phone’s Messaging App (Common for Most Android Versions):

  1. Open the Messaging App: Locate your default messaging app (e.g., Messages by Google) and open it.

  2. Open the Unwanted Text: Similar to iPhone, find the message thread from the number you want to block and tap to open the conversation.

  3. Access Menu Options: Look for the menu icon (usually three vertical dots) in the top right corner of the screen and tap it.

  4. Block Number: Depending on your specific app, you might see an option like “Block” or “Block number.” Tap on it to block the sender.

  5. Confirmation (Optional): Some apps might ask you to confirm you want to block the number. Tap “Block” again to confirm.

Method 2: Using Phone Settings (For Some Android Versions):

  1. Open Phone App: Locate and open the Phone app, usually designated with a phone handset icon.

  2. Recent Calls: You’ll see a list of recent calls. Find the number you want to block and tap on it.

  3. Access More Options (Optional): On some Android versions, you might need to tap the three vertical dots in the top right corner to see more options.

  4. Block Number: Locate “Block number” or a similar option and tap on it to block the sender.

Additional Tips:

  • Reporting Spam: Some phone and messaging apps allow you to report spam messages. This helps flag the sender and potentially prevent them from bothering others.
  • Third-Party Apps: While not always necessary, consider third-party call and message blocking apps that offer additional features like spam filtering.
  • System Updates: Ensure your phone’s operating system and messaging app are updated to the latest versions, as updates often include improvements to blocking functionalities.

By following these simple steps, you can effectively block unwanted text messages on both iPhone and Android devices. Now you can reclaim your inbox and enjoy a message experience free from spam and unwanted texts!