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How to stop spam texts and scam messages
We’ll help you make sure your phone only shows messages you actually want.
Fed up of the constant stream of junk messages? From fake delivery updates to pretend contest wins, it’s not only information overload, sometimes they’re pretty convincing scams too. Instead of manually filtering through with your thumb hovering over “delete all”, we’ll help you spot the scams, block out the noise, and make your phone feel like it’s yours again.
Identifying spam messages
Unexpected urgency
Any messages claiming you need to act immediately, like “account suspended” or “final warning” are a red flag
Asking for personal information
Real companies won’t ask for passwords, PINs, or bank details by text.
Suspicious links
Stay on alert for shortened URLs or spelling mistakes – that’s a sign it’s not genuine.
Too good to be true offers
Fake prizes, refunds, or delivery problems are designed to make you click.
If you weren’t expecting the message, don’t trust it. When in doubt, contact the company directly using a website or number you already know is genuine first.
Blocking and reporting spam texts
Blocking protects you, but reporting as well helps stop the same scam from reaching more people.
Block on your phone
iPhone: open the message → tap sender → info → block contact
Android: open the message → tap the three dot menu → block and report spam
Report spam
Forward any suspicious messages to 7726 (SPAM)
This works on all major UK networks, as well as many international carriers, and is added directly into the network’s detection systems.
Whatever you do, don’t reply to the message. Even replying “STOP” can confirm your number is active to scammers, so report the message instead.
Use built-in filters on your phone
This will reduce how many spam messages you see, but scammers always adapt, so reporting is still important.
iPhone
Open Messages → Manage Filtering → toggle on Screen Unknown Senders
You’ll stop getting notifications and spam will be filtered into your junk folder.
Andriod
Open your Messages app → Message settings (for Google apps, click your profile pic) → Protection and safety → Toggle on spam protection
Google will automatically flag and quarantine messages it suspects are scams or spam.
Protection from your network
UK mobile networks give you a level of protection as standard, so they will:
- Try to block scam messages before they reach you
- Limit mass texting from pay as you go SIM cards
- Use reports sent to 7726 to shut down scam numbers and links
Avoid phishing scams
Be careful when clicking
Never click links from unexpected texts, even if they look genuine.
Be sceptical of caller ID
Don’t automatically trust caller IDs or sender names as they can be false.
Manually access your accounts
Instead of clicking a link, open your bank or app directly.
Update your software
Keep your software updated. They often include security patches that reduce the impact of unsafe links.
What to do if you've interacted with a scam?
1.Disconnect from Wi-fi and change to aeroplane mode
2.Change passwords immediately
3.Run a security scan
4.Monitor bank and card statements
5.Contact your bank or provider
6.Report the scam
Unfortunately, spam texts and scam messages aren’t going anywhere, but you can stop them from taking over your phone (and your life). With a bit of know-how and a few quick actions, you can keep things under control and be confident about the messages you see.
