Spam Text Messages: How to Protect Yourself and Your Data

• Enable spam filters: Check your phone’s settings or messaging app for spam-blocking features. For example, on iPhones, you can enable “Filter Unknown Senders” in the Messages settings.
• Use carrier services: Many wireless providers, like Verizon and AT&T, offer free spam-blocking tools such as verizon has Call Filter. Contact your carrier to see what options are available.
• Download third-party apps: Apps like Truecaller or Hiya can help block spam texts and calls. Just make sure to download them from trusted sources like the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

Here’s how to do it:

• Forward the message to 7726 (SPAM): Most carriers participate in this service. Simply forward the spam text to 7726, and they’ll investigate the number.
• File a complaint with the FCC: Visit the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) website to report unwanted texts.
• Use your phone’s reporting feature: Many messaging apps, like WhatsApp or Google Messages, allow you to report spam directly.

Example:
Suppose you receive a text claiming to be from your bank, asking you to verify your account details. In that case, you should immediately forward the message to 7726. This will help you determine if the number is linked to a phishing scam targeting hundreds of people.

Reference: FCC Guide on Reporting Spam Texts

• Be cautious about sharing your number: Avoid posting your phone number publicly on social media or websites. Only share it with trusted sources.
• Use a secondary number: Consider using a Google Voice number or a similar service for online forms and sign-ups.
• Register on the National Do Not Call Registry: While it’s primarily for telemarketing calls, registering your number at DoNotCall.gov can also help reduce spam texts from legitimate companies.

If you’re overwhelmed by spam text messages and nothing seems to work, you might consider changing your phone number. While this can be inconvenient, it’s sometimes the only way to stop persistent spammers. Before taking this step, make sure to update your number with important contacts and accounts.

If you're a business owner looking to Run bulk SMS or mass texting campaigns without your messages being flagged as spam, TXTImpact can help.

Here’s how TXTImpact ensures compliance with TCPA, GDPR, and CAN-SPAM regulations to safeguard your messages:
Message Filtering & Monitoring: Detects and blocks suspicious content before it reaches recipients.

• Opt-In & Opt-Out Compliance: Enforces opt-in and easy "Reply STOP" options to ensure compliance.
• Sender Authentication: Verifies sender IDs to reduce spoofing risks.
• Rate Limiting: Controls message frequency to avoid over-messaging.
• Content Monitoring: Scans messages for spammy keywords to meet carrier guidelines.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensures messages include necessary sender details and opt-in language.
• Two-Way Messaging: Engages recipients authentically, reducing spam perceptions.
• Analytics & Reports: Tracks performance and identifies spam risks with detailed reports.

With these features, TXTImpact ensures your business messaging remains secure, compliant, and trustworthy, boosting recipient trust and protecting your brand.

Read more : SMS Compliance Guide

Spam text messages are more than just an annoyance—they can pose serious risks to your privacy and security.
By staying vigilant, using available tools, and reporting unwanted messages, you can protect yourself and reduce the impact of spam texts.

Remember, if a message seems suspicious, it’s always better to err on the side of caution.Stay vigilant, use the tools available to you, and don’t hesitate to report unwanted texts. Together, we can fight back against spam text messages and make our digital lives a little safer.