6 Ways to Reduce Robotexts and Spam Text Messages

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The scams and garbage messages never seem to stop coming. While there’s no surefire way to end this nuisance, there are several steps you can take to minimize it.

  1. Do not interact.
    Never respond to a spam text message or click on any links contained within. This includes trying any keywords you might use to opt out of legitimate text messaging services, like “STOP,” “UNSUBSCRIBE,” “CANCEL” or something similar. The only thing responding is guaranteed to accomplish is letting the spammer know your number is active. Instead of stopping, that could make them redouble their efforts or even sell your number to other spammers. Clicking the links could open you up to malware (that’s short for malicious software) that could steal your information, slow down your phone or lead to unexpected charges.

  2. Only share your number when you have to.
    Many companies’ online forms ask for a phone number, but if you don’t have to share it, you shouldn’t. Likewise, avoid posting your number on social media.

  3. Block senders.
    While you might see the same spam message from multiple numbers, each one you block should help at least a little.

    For Android phones, look for the three dots in the top right-hand corner of your text. Click on it and select ‘People’ and ‘Options.’ Next, select ‘Block’ to stop receiving spam text messages from that number.

    For iPhones, click on the ‘i’ in the top right-hand corner of the spam text. Next, click on the number and select ‘Block.'

    Depending on your phone and operating system, you might not even have to go through all these steps. A block option may be displayed at the top of any message from an unknown sender.

  4. Report messages to your phone provider.
    AT&T, Verizon Wireless and T-Mobile all use the number 7726 (SPAM) to inform their spam prevention efforts. Any texts you forward to that number are free and will not count against your text plan.

  5. Turn on spam filters
    If you’re using an Android or iOS device, you should have access to some built-in — but perhaps not enabled — spam protection. Please check your phone instructions.

  6. Try an app.
    If you’re willing to pay for additional protection, there are third-party apps such as RoboKiller. Those apps can also help with robocalls



Taken from  MoneyTalksNews article written by Brandon Ballenger

Photo by Lindsey LaMont on Unsplash