We’ve all been there – you’re enjoying your morning coffee, your phone beeps, and you think it’s a message from a loved one. But alas! It’s yet another phone spam message promoting a suspicious product or service. It can be frustrating and, at times, even alarming. If you’re looking to declutter your phone from these unwanted distractions, you’re in the right place! Whether you use an Android or iOS device, this guide will walk you through some easy steps to help you handle these pesky messages.

For Android Users:

1. Built-in Spam Protection: Modern Android phones often come with built-in spam filters. Head to your ‘Messages’ app, tap on the three dots (or lines) in the top corner, select ‘Settings’, and look for ‘Spam protection’ or ‘Block numbers and messages’. Turn it on.
2. Report as Spam: When you receive a spam message, press and hold on the message. A few options will appear. Select ‘Report as spam’. This not only deletes the message but also informs the system about the spam, helping it recognize and filter similar messages in the future.
3. Manually Block Numbers: If a particular number keeps bothering you, press and hold the message, then choose ‘Block number’. This will prevent that number from sending you messages or calls in the future.
4. Use Third-party Apps: Several apps, such as ‘Truecaller’, can help identify and block spam messages and calls. Download them from the Google Play Store, set them up, and let them handle the rest.

For iOS (iPhone) Users:

1. Silence Unknown Callers: This is a useful feature if you mainly receive calls from known contacts. Head to ‘Settings’, tap ‘Phone’, and then turn on ‘Silence Unknown Callers’. This will send calls from unknown numbers straight to voicemail.
2. Filter Unknown Senders in Messages: In ‘Settings’, tap ‘Messages’ and turn on ‘Filter Unknown Senders’. This will segregate messages from unknown numbers, making it easier for you to identify potential spam.
3. Block Specific Numbers: Received a message from a pesky spammer? In the message thread, tap on the sender’s name/number at the top, tap the ‘info’ icon, then tap on their name/number again. You’ll see an option to ‘Block this Caller’. Tap it.
4. Use Third-party Apps: Like Android, iOS also supports apps that can help in filtering out unwanted messages. Apps like ‘Hiya’ and ‘Nomorobo’ are available in the App Store and can be set up to identify and block spam calls and messages.

General Tips for Both Android and iOS Users:

• Never Share Personal Information: Spammers often impersonate legitimate businesses to steal personal data. Be cautious and never share personal information like bank details or passwords through messages.
• Regularly Update Your Phone: Both Android and iOS release regular updates that often include improved security features. Make sure your phone’s software is up to date.
• Don’t Click on Suspicious Links: Sometimes, spam messages include links. Clicking on them can introduce malware into your phone or lead to phishing websites. It’s best to avoid clicking on any link unless you’re certain about the sender’s identity.
• Educate Yourself: Be aware of current spam and scam trends. A little knowledge can go a long way in keeping you safe.

To sum it up, dealing with spam messages can be a tad annoying, but by taking these steps, you can significantly reduce unwanted messages and calls, ensuring a more pleasant phone experience. So next time your phone beeps, there’s a higher chance it’s your grandchild sending you a picture, and not another bothersome spammer!