How to Stop Spam Messages
- Hannah D

- Jul 30
- 2 min read
Spam text on your phone can pop up when you least expect it and they are more annoying and risky than ever. Did you know that scammers know the companies you trust. They try to imitate and and try to lure you in. Here are the ways you can block spam messages and protect your personal information right now.
What to Keep An Eye For?
Most spam junk are harmless but some are messages designed to steal your personal information. These are called smishing attacks and here are some red flags:
Emotional Traps
Fake payment alerts, delivery scams, or “urgent” warnings trying to make you panic.
Suspicious Links
Links that steal your info or infect your phone. Check for strange domains or misspellings (e.g., netflix-payments.com instead of netflix.com).
Requests for Personal Info Legitimate companies will never ask for personal details like your password, bank info, or ID over SMS.
Unfamiliar Numbers or international codes
Be wary of texts from numbers you don’t recognize, especially if they seem generic or start with another's country's calling code.
1. Don’t Respond to Spam Messages
Even replying "STOP" to a suspicious message can confirm to scammers that your number is active. The safest move is to delete the message and don't engage.
2. Use Your Phone’s Spam Filter
Most phones have built-in spam protection:
iPhone
Settings > Messages > Filter Unknown Senders
Android (Google Messages):
Messages app > Settings > Spam Protection
Turn on Enable Spam Protection
3. Report the Message
In Australia, you can report spam to ReportCyber or ACMA (Australian Communications and Media Authority). Some networks allow you to forward spam texts to 0429 999 888 (ACMA Spam Reporting).
4. Be Careful Where You Share Your Number
Spam often starts when your number gets shared or sold by third parties.
Avoid posting your number publicly.
Be cautious with online forms and competitions.
5. Keep Your Phone’s Software Updated
Software updates often include security patches that help block new spam tactics.
Want Extra Peace of Mind?
If you’re receiving repeated spam or scam messages, talk to your mobile provider. We may be able to help with network-level blocking or further advice.

