How to block text messages on your Android phone
Between corporate spam and unwelcome messages from who-knows-where, having a conversational off switch in your digital tool kit is a good idea. Malicious texts can contain threats to digital safety and security. As a result, many are beginning to search forways to deal with excessive spam.
The good news is that many ofthe best Android phoneshave built-in spam-blocking capabilities. It’s also simple toblock spam callsand texts using Android’s default apps. You can always try a different messaging app if the defaults get on your nerves. If you get texts you don’t want to see, the simplest answer is to block the number.
How to tell if it’s spam
Before you reply to messages from people you don’t know, use these tips to find out if it’s real or spam:
How to block a phone number using Google Messages
Google Messages, titledMessageson your phone, is the default texting app that’s preinstalled on most Android devices. This effective tool offers neat features such as birthday reminders and Google Assistant integration. Still, it isn’t immune to unsolicited contact. Follow these steps if you need to block a phone number in Messages.
You won’t receive any more texts or calls from that phone number. Blocked conversations can be viewed or unblocked in theSpam & blockedfolder, which you can find by pressing thetriple dotsin the upper-right corner.
How to block contacts on WhatsApp
Since WhatsApp is the king of messaging apps, more than a few of us probably have it on our phones. Here’s how to block the spam that inevitably finds its way to your phone.
How to block contacts on Facebook Messenger
Even though Messenger isn’t the king of the U.S. market anymore, it’s still on enough phones to warrant a mention.
How to block a phone number using the Phone app
it’s possible to block a phone number through the Phone app if you prefer doing it that way. Phone comes preinstalled on all Android phones and functions as the primary calling tool. There are two main methods for blocking a number using Phone, and we briefly cover both.
Block a number using the Recents page
Block a number using the Contacts page
Either method results in a successfully blocked number. If you have a text conversation in Messages, it’s moved to theSpam & blockedfolder. You can unblock numbers in Phone by navigating toSettings>Blocked numbers.
Other texting apps to consider
Some other texting apps are worth checking out. However, third-party options sometimes incur greater costs and security risks. These suggestions are meant for Android devices, so you’ll need to read our guide if you havequestions about blocked texts in iMessage.
Samsung Messages
Most Android devices sold by Samsung come with Samsung Messages preinstalled in addition to Google Messages. The two apps are comparable in many ways (including spam detection), but some users prefer Samsung’s texting tool. Though Google Messages is highly recommended because of its integration across apps and platforms, there’s no harm in taking a closer look atSamsung Messages and its nifty features.
Another option that might pique your interest is Signal. This is a lesser-known app that touts end-to-end encryption. It’s great for security and to control who can contact you, but both ends of the conversation need to have Signal to use its security features. This one might work better as a group chat tool rather than a complete texting replacement.
Don’t hesitate to set digital boundaries
Setting boundaries for digital contact is essential in an age where nefarious cyber activity is common. Google is working with carriers toimplement improved messaging standards, but it may be time topull the plug on RCS Chataltogether.
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