Another “You’ve won a free iPhone!” text? Same. If it feels like your phone is constantly buzzing with scammy messages, you're not alone—and you're not overreacting. Spam texts aren't just a harmless annoyance. They're a growing security risk that can lead to phishing attacks, malware infections, and even identity theft.
In this post, we’ll break down:
- Why you’re getting these messages in the first place
- How to block spam texts and report them
- The simple settings and tools that can stop them for good
- And how to tell if a text is legit—or a scam in disguise
Let’s get into it.
Why Am I Getting Spam Texts?
If you’ve ever wondered, “How the heck did they get my number?”—the answer is unfortunately simple: it’s easier than you’d think.
Here’s how spammers get your digits:
- Data breaches: When companies you’ve shared info with get hacked, your number may end up on a list circulating the dark web.
- Random number generators: Spammers use software to blast out messages to thousands of combinations, hoping a few hit.
- Public information: Did you post your number on your website or a public forum? If so, it’s open season for bots.
Most common types of spam texts:
- Phishing scams faking to be your bank or a delivery service
- Fake sweepstakes or prizes (no, you didn’t win that iPhone)
- “Click this link” traps designed to install malware or steal your info
The growing threat:
SMS fraud is on the rise. Texts feel personal, and scammers know that. People are more likely to trust and respond to messages than to suspicious emails—and that’s exactly what fraudsters are banking on.
How to Spot a Spam Text
You don’t need a degree in cybersecurity to sniff out a scam. Most spam texts wave a few red flags if you know what to look for.
Watch out for:
- Numbers you don’t recognize
- Messages with urgent or threatening language
- Bad spelling or weird grammar
- Links that look off (like bit.ly/random123 or fake brand URLs)
Scam vs. legit marketing:
- Legit marketing texts usually come from short codes (like 12345), not 10-digit numbers.
- They include clear opt-out language, like “Reply STOP to unsubscribe.”
- Most importantly, they never ask for sensitive info or send links out of the blue.
The danger of clicking:
Clicking a sketchy link or even replying “STOP” to a suspicious number can confirm that your number is active, which just invites more spam.
How to Stop Spam Text Messages (Step-by-Step)
Tired of deleting the same junk day after day? Follow these steps to shut it down.
1. Don’t engage
If a piece of text looks sketchy, don’t reply, click, or open links. Just delete it.
2. Block the number
On iPhone:
Open the message → Tap the number at the top → Tap “Info” → “Block this Caller”
On Android:
Open the message → Tap the three-dot menu → “Block number”
3. Report the text
Forward the message to 7726 (it spells “SPAM”)—this helps your carrier investigate and block similar messages.
You can also:
- Report to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov
- Check if your carrier has a reporting tool or spam text form
4. Filter unknown senders
iPhone:
Settings → Messages → Turn on “Filter Unknown Senders”
Android:
Messages app → Settings → Spam Protection → Enable “Spam protection”
5. Use carrier spam-blocking tools
Most major carriers offer free (or upgraded) spam filtering:
- Verizon: Call Filter
- AT&T: ActiveArmor
- T-Mobile: Scam Shield
6. Try third-party apps
If spam is still sneaking through, apps like RoboKiller, Truecaller, and Hiya add another layer of protection with smarter detection.
How to Avoid Future Spam
Think of this as digital hygiene. A few good habits go a long way.
- Don’t share your number publicly—forums, Facebook posts, and unprotected websites are crawling with scrapers
- Unsubscribe from marketing lists you don’t care about—less noise, less exposure
- Use a secondary number (like Google Voice) for contests, forms, or online shopping
When to Be Extra Cautious
Some scam texts are designed to catch you off guard. Be on high alert if:
- The message talks about banking, passwords, or urgent account updates
- It comes during holiday seasons or sales events (when scammers know you’re expecting order confirmations)
- It claims to be from a brand you’ve shopped with but looks slightly off
When in doubt? Go directly to the company’s website or app—never click the link in the message.
What About Good Marketing Texts?
Not all texts are bad. When done right, SMS can be a great way to get updates from brands you love—like shipping confirmations, special offers, or reminders.
The key difference? Good texts:
- Come from shortcodes, not random 10-digit numbers
- Give you clear opt-out options
- Are timely, relevant, and respectful
Brands that invest in SMS marketing strategies (and usually work with a solid retention marketing agency) know how to do it right. They don’t spam. They build trust—and they get results.
Final Thoughts
Spam texts aren’t going away anytime soon—but they don’t have to overrun your inbox.
With a few small tweaks to your phone settings and a healthy dose of skepticism, you can learn how to stop unwanted messages before they start.
Stay alert. Stay private. And don’t let scammers steal your peace of mind.
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