Unwanted or spam messages can be a nuisance. Fortunately, both the Android and iPhone operating systems allow users to block spam text messages from specific senders.
The easiest way to stop unwanted texts is by using the dialer app, but you can also set up spam filters in your device’s messaging app or use a third-party program. Let’s explore how to block text messages on Android and iPhone.
How to block text messages on Android
Android users have several options to block text messages. The easiest way to stop unwanted texts is with the default phone app.
Stop unwanted texts with the dialer app
Blocking a phone number with your Android phone's default dialer app restricts all incoming communication, like spam texts and robocalls. It's an easy, quick way to stop spam texts with your handset's preinstalled apps.
Here’s how to block messages with the Android phone app:
- Open your phone’s dialer app.
- Tap the three-dot menu in the right-hand top corner.
- Select Settings from the drop-down menu.
- Hit Blocked numbers.
- Select Add a number.
- Enter the phone number you wish to restrict and tap Block.
To unblock a restricted number, tap the X by the digits you want to allow.
Block text messages on Android using the messaging app
Alternatively, the Android messages app offers a convenient way to block and report phone numbers. Here’s how to stop robotexts and other undesired texts with the default Android messaging app:
- Open the messaging app and select a message from a sender you wish to block.
- Long press (tap and hold) on the unwanted message until you see a Block & report spam message.
- Select the No icon (circle with a line through it).
- Tap OK to confirm and select or deselect the Report spam option if necessary.
Stop texts Using a third-party app
Several third-party apps on the Google Play Store block text messages for you. Our favorite Android number-blocking apps are Mr. Number, Calls Blacklist, and Call & SMS Blocker.
How to block text messages on iPhone
iPhone users can easily block text messages using iMessage:
- Open the messages app and select a text message from the sender you wish to block.
- Tap the “i” info icon.
- Press the right arrow beside this contact’s details.
- Select Block this Caller.
- Confirm your selection by hitting Block Contact in the pop-up.
Notably, you can only leave or mute some group chats. However, if everyone uses iMessage, you can mute the thread by tapping the group text name at the top of the screen and hitting Hide Alerts. You can also remove yourself from the group by selecting Leave this Conversation. To manage your blocked phone numbers list, head to Settings > Messages > Blocked Contacts.
Using the Phone app
You can quickly block numbers using your iPhone’s dialer app for contacts in your recent history:
- Open the phone dialer app and select the Recents tab.
- Locate the phone number you want to block and tap the "i" icon.
- Hit the arrow by the caller’s details and select Block this Caller.
- Tap Block Contact in the pop-up message to confirm.
Block messages on iPhone with a third-party app
Just like Android, several third-party apps on the App Store offer spam filters that can help you block text messages. Our favorite number-blocking iOS apps are Hiya, Mr. Number, and RoboKiller.
How to block text messages on iPhone and Android: FAQs
How do I block text messages on Android and iPhone?
You can block text messages on an iPhone or Android using the built-in messaging or phone app. Otherwise, there are a host of third-party apps that allow you to block text messages.
Why am I getting texts from random numbers?
You may be getting texts from random numbers for a variety of reasons: wrong numbers, SMS sales from a business you frequent, or robotexts. Spammers often use programs to randomly generate phone numbers automatically, so you can get spam texts or calls even with new digits.
How do you tell if your texts are blocked?
It's tough to tell if your texts are blocked; however, you can try calling or sending a text message. Another user may have blocked you if you don't see a Read or Delivered notification after texting. However, this also happens when a mobile device is in Do Not Disturb mode. You can also try calling, and if you get one ring and then go directly to a voicemail, you're likely blocked.
Can I report someone spam texting my phone?
Yes, you can report phone numbers for spam texting by filing a complaint with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
Can I block an entire group chat on Android?
No, you cannot block group chats on Android.
Can I block a group chat on iPhone?
No, you cannot block a group chat on iPhone, but you can leave it if everyone uses iMessage by selecting the group text name in the top of the screen, then tapping Leave this Conversation.
Moe Long
Senior Writer
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