⚡ Quick tips
- Don't click suspicious links in unexpected text messages.
- Never reply to spam texts, even to unsubscribe.
- Block and report suspicious numbers to help stop future scams.
- Delete spam messages after reporting and blocking the sender.
Spam text messages are irritating, but did you know they can also put your private information at risk? Scammers often try to imitate legitimate companies and get you to click on a link that infects your mobile device with malware.
Don't worry, AT&T ProTech experts can help you recognize and stop spam before it becomes a bigger problem. Here's how to identify, block, and report unwanted text messages.
Why am I getting spam text messages?
Spam texts can happen for several reasons. Your phone number may have been collected through:
- Online accounts or social media profiles
- Contests, coupons, or rewards programs
- Data breaches
- Automated dialing systems
Most spam messages are harmless advertisements, but some are smishing attacks designed to steal passwords, financial information, or other personal data.
How to spot a spam text
Some spam texts are harmless ads, while others—known as smishing—are designed to steal personal or financial information. Here are five warning signs to watch for.
They play with your emotions
Spam texts often create a false sense of urgency with fake purchase confirmations or package delivery alerts to get you to act without thinking.
They urge you to click on a link
Scammers will often send you a malicious link, hoping you'll click it. This link can install malware, steal your information, or lead to fake websites designed to collect your personal data.
They ask you to respond
Legitimate companies or financial institutions send text messages asking you to reply “STOP" to no longer receive alerts. Cyberthieves have emulated this tactic to confirm your number is active so they can send even more spam.
They don't use your name
Legitimate organizations usually personalize their messages. Generic greetings like "Hello," "Dear Customer," or "Dear Member" can be a red flag.
They use incorrect grammar
Established companies and organizations have teams dedicated to proofreading emails, so poor spelling, grammar, or punctuation can be a sign that a message isn't legitimate.
What to do when you receive a spam text messages
Follow these simple steps:
- Don't click any links or attachments.
- Don't reply, even to request removal from future messages.
- Take a screenshot if you need to document the message.
- Block the sender and delete the text.
How to report spam or scam text messages
Help protect others by reporting spam.
- Tell your mobile carrier: It's simple. Forward the suspicious message to 7726 (SPAM).
- Tell the Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Head to the FTC's reporting website so they can add the suspected scammer's number to a list of known fraudsters.
How to block spam texts
Both iPhone and Android devices have the ability to stop or block unwanted calls and texts. Here's how to do it.
iPhone:
Open the Messages app, select the conversation, tap the contact at the top of the screen, then choose Block this Caller.
Android:
Open the message, tap the menu, and select Block or Block & report spam. The exact steps may vary by device.
The best way to stop spam texts is to avoid engaging with them. Blocking and reporting suspicious messages can help protect both you and others from future scams.
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