Consumer Reports: How to cut down on spam text messages

PHOENIX (3TV/CBS 5) - Do you feel like you’re getting more and more random texts from companies instead of calls or emails? You’re not wrong.

Text marketing is on the rise, and annoyed consumers are sick of it, and Consumer Reports has some tips on how to stop spam texts once and for all. Sometimes people opt-in to these types of texts without even knowing it. If the message is from a recognized business and offers a way to opt out, do that. You can also forward unwanted texts to 7726. It’s free, and it helps your carrier take action.

Your phone or carrier should give you the option to block the number to stop it from sending you more messages. You can also file a complaint with the Federal Communications Commission or the Federal Trade Commission if you’re getting messages you never agreed to. Also, be careful when entering your phone number online. You may need to uncheck a box to opt-out of marketing texts or emails.

Another tip if you’re getting texts you can’t seem to stop is to check the company’s online privacy policy for a way to opt out. For example, Dress Barn’s opt-out policy states that you can unsubscribe from its marketing text messages by replying STOP to a message.

Unwanted texts can definitely be annoying, and some can be dangerous. Smishing—as it’s called—is a way scammers try to get your personal info via text message. Scammers may text you claiming to be from a government agency, and it may sound urgent and ask for an immediate response. It may even sound friendly or will use your name.

If you get a suspicious text you didn’t sign up for—don’t reply—even if it says to “text STOP” to opt-out. Block the number, then delete the text. Another tip from CR is to add your name to the Do Not Call Registry. The list covers unwanted text messages, too.

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