How do I stop spam texts on Android?

You cannot stop every spam text, but you can cut them down a lot. Do not reply or tap any links. In your Messages app, make sure spam protection is on, then block and report each spam conversation. In the US, you can also forward the text to 7726 so your carrier can block similar messages.

Steps to check

1. Do not reply, tap links, or call back

   Leave the message alone. The FTC warns that scam texts try to get you to tap a link or share personal or bank details, and that real companies will not ask for your account information by text. If a message says there is a problem with an account or a package and you think it might be real, contact that company using a phone number or website you already know, not anything in the text.

2. Turn on spam protection

   Google Messages has built-in spam protection that can hide suspected spam in a separate folder. It is usually on already, but it is worth checking. Open Google Messages, tap your profile picture or initial at the top right, then Messages settings → Protection & Safety → Spam protection, and turn on Enable spam protection. If you do not see this option, your phone may not offer it.

3. Block and report each spam conversation

   This stops that number from texting you and helps the spam filter learn. In Google Messages, touch and hold the spam conversation, tap Block, leave Report spam checked, and tap OK. Or open the conversation and tap More options (three dots) → Details → Block & report spam → OK. The conversation moves to your Spam & blocked folder.

   • Samsung In Samsung Messages, touch and hold the conversation, tap More, then Block, and tap Block again to confirm. If your Samsung uses Google Messages, follow the steps above.
   • Motorola In Messages, touch and hold the conversation, tap the menu → Block. Leave the checkmark on to report it as spam to Google, or remove it if you only want to block.

4. Forward the text to 7726 (US)

   In the US, the FTC suggests copying the spam message and forwarding it to 7726 (the letters SPAM on a keypad). This goes to your wireless carrier and helps them block similar messages in the future. You can also report scams to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

5. Ask your carrier about blocking tools

   Your mobile carrier may offer a tool or service that blocks spam calls and texts before they reach your phone. Call them or check their website or app and ask what they have for spam texts.

6. Check the spam folder now and then

   Now and then a real message lands in spam. In Google Messages, tap your profile picture or the menu and open Spam & blocked. If you see a message you wanted, open it and tap Unblock or Not spam. On Samsung Messages, go to More options (three dots) → Settings → Block numbers and spam to see or change your blocked list.

Normal vs. not

Common questions

What does reporting spam send to Google?

Google's help says a report sends the spammer's number and their last 10 incoming messages to Google. Your past replies are not sent, your name and number are not linked to the report, and the spammer cannot see it. Reporting is optional; you can block without reporting.

Can a blocked number still text me?

Motorola's help says the phone declines calls and texts from a blocked number automatically. In Google Messages, blocked and reported conversations are kept in the Spam & blocked folder, out of your main inbox.

Why do I still get spam after blocking?

Spammers often switch to new numbers. Blocking stops one number, not the next one. Keep reporting, keep spam protection on, and forward the texts to 7726 so carriers can spot the pattern.

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