How to stop spam texts on iPhone

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To stop spam texts on your iPhone, you can block specific numbers, filter unknown senders, or report spam messages directly to your carrier. These methods help reduce unwanted messages and improve your texting experience.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before proceeding, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •An iPhone running iOS 14 or later for optimal features.
  • •Access to your Messages app.
  • •An active cellular plan that supports SMS messaging.
  • •Backup your messages if needed, using iCloud or iTunes.

Method 1: Block Specific Numbers

This method is effective when you receive spam texts from specific numbers. Blocking these numbers will prevent them from sending you further messages.
  • •Step 1: Open the Messages app on your iPhone.
  • •Step 2: Find the spam message from the sender you wish to block.
  • •Step 3: Tap on the message to open the conversation.
  • •Step 4: Tap the sender's name or number at the top of the conversation.
  • •Step 5: Tap the 'info' icon (an 'i' in a circle).
  • •Step 6: Scroll down and select 'Block this Caller'.
  • •Step 7: Confirm by tapping 'Block Contact'.
  • •Step 8: To verify, the blocked number will no longer appear in your messages.

For iOS 15 and later

In iOS 15, you can also enable filtering for unknown senders.
  • •Step 1: Go to 'Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and tap 'Messages'.
  • •Step 3: Toggle on 'Filter Unknown Senders'.

For iOS 14 and earlier

The steps are similar, but the filtering feature is not available.
  • •Step 1: Open 'Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Tap 'Messages'.
  • •Step 3: Ensure 'Filter Unknown Senders' is not available.

Method 2: Report Spam to Your Carrier

If spam messages persist, reporting them to your carrier can help. Carriers often have systems in place to investigate and block spam.
  • •Step 1: Copy the spam message.
  • •Step 2: Open the Messages app.
  • •Step 3: Create a new message and paste the spam content.
  • •Step 4: Send it to 7726 (SPAM).
  • •Step 5: You should receive a confirmation message from your carrier.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while trying to stop spam texts, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: Unable to block number - Solution: Ensure you are tapping the correct 'info' icon and that the number is not already blocked.
  • •Issue: Spam messages still coming through - Fix: Ensure 'Filter Unknown Senders' is enabled in your settings.
  • •Problem: Can't report spam - Workaround: Check if your carrier supports reporting spam via SMS.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For users looking to enhance their spam filtering capabilities, consider these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Use 'Command + A' to select all messages in a conversation for quick deletion.
  • •Hidden feature: Use 'Do Not Disturb' mode to silence all notifications from unknown senders during specific hours.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Regularly check your spam settings and update your iPhone to the latest iOS version for the best protection against spam texts.