How to Stop Receiving Blank Text Messages from Unknown Numbers

How to Stop Receiving Blank Text Messages from Unknown Numbers

In today’s digital age, receiving unwanted and blank text messages from unknown numbers can be a frustrating and intrusive experience. Whether it’s a result of spam, a glitch, or someone trying to reach you anonymously, these messages can clutter your inbox and invade your privacy. If you’re looking to put an end to these annoying interruptions, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to stop receiving blank text messages from unknown numbers.

Understanding the Issue

Blank text messages are exactly what they sound like—messages with no content. They can come from unknown numbers and may be sent for various reasons, including:

• Spam and Marketing: Some spam campaigns may send blank messages to verify that your number is active.
• Technical Issues: Sometimes, blank messages are a result of technical glitches or errors in the messaging app.
• Prank or Malicious Intent: Individuals may send blank messages to annoy or harass you.

Understanding the cause can help you choose the right approach to stop them.

1. Block the Unknown Numbers

One of the simplest methods to stop receiving unwanted messages is to block the numbers that send them. Here’s how you can do this on different platforms:

• iOS Devices:
  1. Open the Messages app.
  2. Find the message from the unknown number.
  3. Tap on the contact or number at the top of the message thread.
  4. Select “Info” and then “Block this Caller.”
• Android Devices:
  1. Open the Messages app.
  2. Find the message from the unknown number.
  3. Tap and hold the message or number.
  4. Select “Block” or “Block number” from the menu.

Blocking numbers will prevent them from sending you any further messages.

2. Enable Spam Filters

Many modern smartphones and messaging apps have built-in spam filters that can help block unwanted messages:

• iOS: Go to Settings > Messages > Filter Unknown Senders. This will separate messages from unknown senders into a different tab.
• Android: Depending on your phone’s manufacturer, you might have different options. Look in Settings > Messages > Spam Protection, and ensure spam protection is enabled.

3. Report Spam

If you receive a blank message that seems to be part of a spam campaign, reporting it can help reduce the number of such messages:

• iOS: Open the message, tap “Report Junk,” and follow the prompts.
• Android: Open the message, tap the three dots in the corner, and select “Report Spam.”

Reporting helps your service provider take action against spammers and may reduce future occurrences.

4. Use Third-Party Apps

There are several third-party apps available that can help block unwanted messages and spam. Some popular options include:

• Truecaller: Identifies and blocks spam calls and messages.
• Hiya: Provides spam blocking and caller ID services.
• Call Blocker: Offers customizable blocking options for calls and messages.

These apps can provide additional features and help manage unwanted messages more effectively.

5. Contact Your Mobile Carrier

If you continue to receive blank text messages despite taking the above steps, it might be worth contacting your mobile carrier. They may have additional tools or services to help manage unwanted messages. Most carriers offer customer support that can assist with blocking numbers or filtering messages.

6. Update Your Messaging App

Sometimes, the issue might be related to an outdated version of your messaging app. Ensure that your app is up to date:

• iOS: Open the App Store, go to “Updates,” and update your messaging app if needed.
• Android: Open the Google Play Store, search for your messaging app, and update it if an update is available.

Updating your app can fix bugs and glitches that might be causing the problem.

7. Consider Changing Your Phone Number

As a last resort, if the blank messages are persistent and disruptive, you might consider changing your phone number. This can help if the messages are part of a targeted harassment campaign or if other methods haven’t worked.

Summary

Receiving blank text messages from unknown numbers can be annoying, but there are several ways to address the issue. By blocking the numbers, enabling spam filters, reporting spam, using third-party apps, contacting your mobile carrier, updating your messaging app, or even changing your phone number, you can take control of your messaging experience and reduce unwanted interruptions.

By following these steps, you can help ensure that your text messages remain free from unwanted and blank messages, allowing you to focus on what truly matters