Blocking Political Text Messages: Regaining Your Peace

Political text messages can be a nuisance, especially during election season when campaigns are trying to interact with voters. If you're tired of receiving endless messages from candidates and causes you didn't even know had your number, asking for your vote or money, there are a few things you can do to reduce the clutter in your inbox.

How to stop receiving political text messages

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Replying 'STOP' to unwanted political text messages

Political text messages can be a nuisance, especially during election season when campaigns are trying to interact with voters. In 2022, Americans received a record 15 billion political texts, and the number is expected to be even higher in 2024. These messages often come from political candidates asking for money or votes, and they can be challenging to stop because campaigns may have obtained your consent in obscure ways, such as in the fine print of a website or through data brokers.

However, if you want to stop receiving these unwanted political text messages, there is a simple solution: reply "STOP." According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), legitimate campaigns should honor opt-out requests, and you can also block the number. Replying "STOP" works for legitimate businesses or organizations because they must comply with the law. Additionally, you can go to your phone's message settings and filter out text messages from unknown senders or those not in your contact list.

It's important to note that this method may not always be effective, especially with unethical text vendors or scammers. In such cases, you can take additional steps, such as reporting the sender by forwarding the texts to 7726 ("SPAM") and blocking them. You can also file a complaint with the FCC or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) if you believe the messages violate their rules. These rules include specific restrictions on political campaign-related autodialed or prerecorded voice calls and texts to cell phones without the recipient's prior express consent.

While it may be challenging to completely stop all unwanted political text messages, by following these steps, you can significantly reduce their frequency and protect yourself from unwanted solicitation.

Blocking the number

If you're tired of receiving political text messages, you're not alone. In 2022, Americans received a record 15 billion political texts, and that number is expected to be even higher in 2024. While there's no universal "mute" button to stop these texts, there are several ways to reduce them.

One option is to block the number. After replying "stop" to the unwanted text, you can block the sender by going into your phone's settings. On iPhones, open the Settings app, tap "Messages," scroll down, and toggle "Filter Unknown Senders" to the "on" position. This will cause texts from people who aren't in your contacts to go to a separate inbox. For Android phones, open the Messages app, navigate to the Settings menu, select "Spam Protection," and enable it. Keep in mind that Android phones may have slightly different menu layouts.

In addition to blocking numbers, you can also reduce political text messages by changing your phone settings to filter out unknown senders. However, this may cause you to miss important text reminders from senders who aren't in your contacts, such as doctors' offices or restaurants.

It's important to note that replying "stop" may not always be effective, as it alerts the sender that your number is active. Legitimate campaigns should honor your request to opt out, but scammers may increase their messaging.

Filtering out text messages from unknown numbers

If you're tired of receiving political text messages, there are several ways to filter out unwanted messages from unknown numbers. Here are some methods to help you regain control over your inbox:

Reply "Stop" and Block

One way to stop receiving political text messages is to reply with the word "STOP." This method works for legitimate organizations as they must comply with the law. However, it is important to note that this might not always be effective, and blocking the number after replying "stop" is advisable.

Utilize Built-in Features on iPhone and Android Devices

Both iPhone and Android devices offer built-in features to filter out text messages from unknown numbers. On an iPhone, go to "Settings," tap "Messages," and enable "Filter Unknown Senders." This will send messages from unknown senders to a separate inbox, and you won't receive notifications for them. For Android devices, open the "Messages" app, navigate to "Settings," select "Spam Protection," and enable it. Keep in mind that Android phones may have slight variations in menu layouts.

Use Spam-Blocking Apps

Major cell phone carriers like AT&T and Verizon offer spam-blocking apps. For instance, AT&T's Call Protect app sends calls from unknown numbers to voicemail, while Verizon's Call Filter app provides basic spam-blocking features. You can also explore third-party apps, such as Aura's Call Assistant, which offers AI-powered protection against unwanted calls and messages.

Block Individual Numbers

If you're receiving text messages from unknown numbers, you can block them directly. On iPhones, long-press the message, tap the three-dot menu, and select "Block." You can also tap the sender's phone number or email address and then tap the "Block this Caller" option. On Android devices, the process may vary slightly depending on the model, but you can typically find blocking options within the Messages app or phone settings.

Report Spam and Junk Messages

You can also report spam or junk messages to your carrier or directly to Apple if you're using an iPhone. On iPhones, tap "Report Junk" and then "Delete and Report Junk." For SMS, MMS, or RCS messages, you may need to contact your carrier for reporting. Reporting spam helps identify and block unwanted messages, improving your overall messaging experience.

By following these methods, you can effectively filter out text messages from unknown numbers and reduce the influx of unwanted political messages.

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Reporting spam texts by forwarding them to 7726

If you're tired of receiving political text messages, you're not alone. During election season, it is common to experience an increase in such messages. While political campaign calls and texts are exempt from the National Do Not Call Registry requirements, there are still rules in place to protect consumers. Here's how you can fight back against those pesky texts by using the number 7726, which spells out "SPAM" on your phone keypad:

Step 1: Recognize Spam

Spam text messages are often sent by scammers trying to trick you into giving them your personal and financial information. They may promise free prizes or offer deals that seem too good to be true. Be cautious of such messages and never click on suspicious links or provide sensitive information.

Step 2: Forward to 7726

If you receive a spam text, simply forward the message to 7726. This number is a spam reporting service provided by mobile carriers. By forwarding the message, you are helping to identify and block spammers. This service is offered by several mobile service providers, so check with your carrier to ensure they participate.

Step 3: Block the Sender

After forwarding the spam text, it is a good idea to block the sender to prevent any further messages from them. On your phone, go into the message thread and find the option to block the number. This process may vary slightly depending on your device and messaging app.

Step 4: Additional Settings

To further reduce unwanted messages, you can adjust your phone settings. On iPhones, go to Settings > Messages and enable "Filter Unknown Senders." For Android, open the Messages app, navigate to Settings > Spam Protection, and enable it. These settings will help filter out messages from unknown contacts.

Step 5: Report to the FCC

If you believe you have received a political text that violates FCC rules, you can take it a step further. File an informal complaint with the FCC at fcc.gov/complaints. The FCC takes unwanted robocalls and texts seriously and works to protect consumers from illegal and unwanted communications.

By following these steps, you can take back control over your inbox and reduce the number of unwanted political text messages. Remember, your consent is important, and you have the right to revoke it at any time. Stay vigilant and utilize the tools available to minimize spam and protect your personal information.

Filing a complaint with the FCC

Political text messages sent to a mobile phone using an autodialer require the recipient's prior express consent. However, political text messages sent manually can be sent without prior consent.

If you are receiving political text messages that you did not ask for, you can report the sender by forwarding the texts to 7726 (or "SPAM"). You can also respond to the text with "STOP" and then block the number. You can also go to the "messages" settings on your phone and filter out text messages from anyone not in your contact list.

If you believe you have received a political text that does not comply with the FCC's rules, you can file an informal complaint with the FCC. The FCC does not have the authority to resolve all individual complaints, but by submitting a detailed complaint, the Commission can provide additional resources to guide you through possible next steps.

You can file a complaint with the FCC online at fcc.gov/complaints. Filing online is the quickest and most effective way to file a complaint. You can also file a complaint by calling 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322) or by making an ASL Video Call to 1-844-432-2275. You can also file a complaint by mail. If you choose to mail your complaint, be sure to include your name, address, contact information, and as much detail about your complaint as possible. Send mailed complaints to the following address:

Federal Communications Commission

Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau

Consumer Inquiries and Complaints Division

45 L Street NE

Washington, DC 20554

Frequently asked questions