Table of Contents
Are you one of those who’s getting frustrated with unwanted SMS or spam texts? Have you been disturbed by unsolicited promotional messages and advertisements on your Android phone? If yes, then you might need to learn how to block unwanted SMS in your Android device. Spam messages can be a major issue, especially if you need to check your phone notifications often. This tutorial will help you get rid of unwanted messages and enjoy peace of mind.
Blocking unwanted SMS in Android devices is very easy – all it takes is a few clicks. However, knowing the right methods can be tricky. This tutorial will provide you with step-by-step processes on how to block unwanted SMS using different methods.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
To follow the steps in this tutorial, you need an Android device with the messaging app installed. You should also have access to the messaging settings of your device to be able to use the different methods discussed here.
What Requires Your Focus?
Before you proceed with blocking unwanted SMS, there are some things you need to focus on:
- The type of SMS you want to block
- The frequency of the incoming SMS
- The sender of the message
- How you want to handle the blocked messages
Different Methods to Block Unwanted SMS
Method 1: Using Default Messaging App
This is the easiest and most straightforward method you can use to block unwanted SMS. Almost every Android device has a default messaging app, which comes with an inbuilt SMS filter. This filter will help you block a specific contact’s SMS, or you can choose to block all incoming SMS that contains specific keywords.
Steps:
- Open the default messaging app on your Android device.
- Click on the conversation thread of the sender you wish to block.
- On the top right corner of the screen, click on the three-dot menu and select "Block."
- You’ll be prompted to confirm your action by clicking on "OK."
- If you want to block all SMS containing specific keywords, select "Settings" from the messaging app menu.
- Click on "Spam-filter" and add the specific keywords you want to block.
- Click on "Save."
Pros:
- Quick and easy
- No external app required
- Can block specific contacts and keywords
Cons:
- Only has basic filtering features
- Does not block messages from unknown senders
Method 2: Using Call Blocker App
If you need more advanced filtering features, then using a call blocker app can be a good option. Call blocker apps not only block spam calls, but they can also block unwanted SMS. These apps can block SMS containing specific keywords, block contacts, and even block messages from unknown numbers.
Steps:
- Download and install a call blocker app from the Google Play Store (Truecaller, Call Blocker, etc.)
- Open the call blocker app and click on "Messaging"
- Add the specific number or keyword you want to block.
- Click on "Block" and confirm your action.
Pros:
- Provides advanced filtering
- Can block messages from unknown numbers
- Can block both SMS and calls
Cons:
- Requires downloading a third-party app
- Some call blocker apps can interfere with the proper functioning of your device
Method 3: Using Google Messages App
Google Messages is an excellent messaging app that provides users with multiple filtering options. The app comes with an inbuilt spam filter that automatically detects and blocks unwanted SMS. You can also add numbers to a block list manually and filter messages from unknown numbers.
Steps:
- Download and install the Google Messages app from the Google Play Store.
- Open the app and click on the three-dot menu on the top right corner.
- Select "Settings," then click on "Spam and blocked Messages"
- Enable the "Spam protection" toggle switch.
- You can also add the specific number or keyword you want to block by clicking on "Add a number."
- Select "Blocked" to see the list of all the numbers and keywords you’ve blocked.
Pros:
- Comes with an inbuilt spam filter
- Can block messages from unknown numbers
- Can block multiple numbers and keywords
Cons:
- Requires installing Google Messages
- Can be resource-intensive on some devices
Why Can’t I Block Unwanted SMS?
Reasons:
- You’re using an outdated version of the Android messaging app
- Your device’s messaging settings are not correctly set up
- The messages are originating from apps with SMS permissions that are bypassing default controls
Fixes:
- Make sure you’re using the latest version of the messaging app.
- Check your device’s messaging settings and ensure you have selected the right filtering options.
- Uninstall apps that bypass default controls and send you unsolicited messages.
Implications and Recommendations
Blocking unwanted SMS is not only a matter of convenience, but it’s also an essential security measure. Unsolicited SMS can sometimes contain malware, viruses, or malicious links. Make sure you configure your device’s default messaging app to receive only messages from trusted senders. If you receive unsolicited SMS from unknown senders, avoid clicking on any links or replying to the message, as this could compromise your device’s security.
5 FAQs about Blocking Unwanted SMS
Q: Can I recover blocked messages?
A: No, once a message has been blocked, you cannot recover it.
Q: What happens when I block a contact?
A: When you block a contact, you will no longer receive SMS or calls from them.
Q: Can I receive texts from a blocked sender once I unblock them?
A: Yes, once you unblock a sender, you will start receiving SMS from them again.
Q: Can I block group messages?
A: Yes, you can block group messages by blocking the group creator or by blocking messages that have specific keywords.
Q: Do all Android devices support SMS blocking?
A: Yes, all modern Android devices support blocking unwanted SMS.
In Conclusion
Blocking unwanted SMS is an easy process that can give you peace of mind and help you avoid unwanted disturbances. Whether you are using the default messaging app, Google Messages, or an external call blocker app, the process is easy and straightforward. Consider the method that suits your needs and apply it to help you enjoy a smoother messaging experience.