Blocking Political Texts: A Guide For Verizon Users

Verizon is committed to stopping spam text messages and works hard to ensure that text messages remain a trusted form of communication. However, political text messages can be frustrating to deal with, especially when they are unsolicited. While political campaigns are a legal activity, there are ways to reduce the number of unwanted political text messages you receive.

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Replying STOP to political text messages is an effective way to opt out of receiving them

Political text messages can be annoying, especially when they are unsolicited. While political campaigns are a legal activity, there are ways to opt out of receiving these messages. One effective way is to reply "STOP" to the text message. Replying "STOP" to a text message is a simple and quick way to opt out of receiving further messages from that sender. It is also an industry-standard practice that text message senders must adhere to. By replying "STOP", you are revoking your consent to receive further messages, and the sender is required to honour this request. This method is particularly effective for legitimate political campaigns that follow FCC restrictions and industry guidelines.

Verizon, for example, works hard to ensure that spam text messages do not reach their customers. They require businesses and organizations sending text messages in high volumes to obtain consumer consent and adhere to industry guidelines. So, if you are a Verizon customer and are receiving unwanted political text messages, replying "STOP" is an effective way to opt out. This action will flag your number in their system, indicating that you no longer wish to receive messages from that specific campaign. Additionally, you can report spam text messages by forwarding them to 7726, which allows Verizon to identify and take action against problematic messages.

It is important to note that this method may not work for all political text messages, especially those sent by scammers or illegal campaigns. Scammers often obtain phone numbers through various means, including fine print in user agreements, and may not honour opt-out requests. In such cases, blocking the number or changing your phone settings to filter out unknown senders can be helpful. Additionally, if you suspect that your number has been shared by an organization you are associated with, you can contact them and request to be removed from third-party marketing.

While replying "STOP" is a straightforward method, it may not always be the most convenient option. Some political campaigns may provide additional opt-out instructions within the text message, such as replying with a specific word or following a link. These alternative methods can also be effective in opting out of receiving further messages. However, it is crucial to exercise caution when clicking on links within text messages, as they may contain malware or direct you to untrusted websites.

In conclusion, replying "STOP" to political text messages is a valid and effective way to opt out of receiving further messages from legitimate campaigns. It is a simple action that empowers you to take control of the text messages you receive and reduces the clutter of unwanted messages. By following this method and utilizing additional tools and settings, you can significantly reduce the number of unwanted political text messages on your phone.

Report spam texts by forwarding them to 7726

If you are receiving spam text messages, you can report them by forwarding them to 7726 (or "SPAM"). This allows Verizon to identify problematic messages and take action quickly. By forwarding spam messages to 7726, you help your wireless provider spot and block similar messages in the future.

Verizon is committed to stopping spam text messages and works hard to ensure that text messages remain a trusted form of communication. The company blocks more than a billion text messages every month, where scammers attempt to misuse their consumer services to spam customers. Verizon requires businesses and other organizations sending texts in high volumes to adhere to industry guidelines and obtain consumer consent before sending texts. This also applies to political campaigns.

In addition to reporting spam texts to 7726, you can also block unsolicited messages and protect your personal information from smishing and text scams. You can learn to identify fake text messages and block unwanted messages through Verizon's blocking options.

It is important to note that political text messages sent to a mobile phone using an autodialer require your prior express consent. However, if you are receiving such texts without your consent, you can report the sender by forwarding the texts to 7726. Additionally, campaigns should honor your opt-out requests if you reply "STOP" to their messages.

Change your phone settings to block or filter out unknown senders

If you're receiving political text messages on your iPhone, you can change your phone settings to block or filter out unknown senders. Here's how:

First, open your iPhone's Settings app. Then, follow these steps:

• Tap "Apps".
• Tap "Messages".
• Scroll down and turn on "Filter Unknown Senders".
• Now, open your Messages app.
• Tap "Filters" in the upper-left corner.
• Tap "Unknown Senders" to view messages from blocked senders.

Please note that turning on the "Filter Unknown Senders" setting will not block spam texts; it will simply allow you to ignore them and view them at a later time. If you want to block a specific number, you can do so by opening the conversation in the Messages app, tapping the contact at the top, tapping "Info", scrolling down, and then tapping "Block this Caller".

Additionally, you can report political text messages as spam by forwarding them to 7726. You can also reply "STOP" to opt out of receiving further messages.

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Contact any politically-minded groups you're involved in and ask them to remove you from third-party marketing

If you're receiving unwanted political text messages, it's likely that your phone number was shared by an organization you participate in or from voter registration databases being shared with third parties. To stop these texts, you can contact any politically-minded groups you're involved with and ask them to remove you from third-party marketing.

• Identify the politically-minded groups you're involved with and contact them directly: Start by making a list of any political organizations, campaigns, or groups that you may have shared your phone number with. This could include political parties, advocacy groups, or voter registration databases.
• Reach out and request removal from third-party marketing: Once you've identified the potential sources of the text messages, contact them directly and ask to be removed from their marketing lists. You can do this by calling or emailing their customer service or support team. Explain that you no longer wish to receive text messages from them or their affiliates and request that they remove your phone number from their marketing lists.
• Follow up and confirm: After making your request, don't hesitate to follow up with the groups to confirm that your phone number has been successfully removed. It's important to ensure that your request is honored and that your phone number is no longer shared with third-party marketers.
• Monitor your text messages: After taking these steps, keep an eye on your text messages to see if the number of political texts decreases. It may take some time for your request to be fully processed and propagated through their systems.
• Block persistent senders: If you continue to receive political text messages from specific senders, you can block their numbers directly on your phone. Most phones have built-in blocking features that allow you to prevent further messages from reaching your inbox.

By taking these steps, you can effectively reduce the number of unwanted political text messages you receive and protect your privacy. Remember that you have the right to revoke consent for receiving such messages at any time, and organizations are legally required to honor your request.

File an informal complaint with the FCC if you think you've received a political robocall or text that doesn't comply with the FCC's rules

If you are receiving political robocalls or text messages that you suspect are non-compliant with the FCC's rules, you can file an informal complaint with the FCC. The informal complaint process is free of charge and does not involve any legal procedures or appearances before the FCC. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to file an informal complaint:

Online

Filing a complaint online is the quickest and most effective way. Visit the FCC's website at fcc.gov/complaints to submit your complaint. This website uses HTTPS, which ensures a secure connection to protect your sensitive information.

By Phone

You can call 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322) to file a complaint by phone.

ASL Video Call

If you prefer, you can also make an ASL video call to 1-844-432-2275 to file your complaint.

By Mail

You can send your complaint by mail to the following address:

> Federal Communications Commission

> Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau

> 45 L Street NE

> Washington, DC 20554

Please include your name, address, contact information, and as many details about your complaint as possible.

In addition to filing an informal complaint, you can also take other steps to reduce unwanted political text messages. For example, you can reply with "STOP" to opt out of receiving further messages. You can also report spam by forwarding the text messages to 7726 (or "SPAM"). Verizon, for instance, actively works to block spam text messages and coordinates with other service providers to identify and shut down illegal text message campaigns.

Frequently asked questions