iPhone Won’t Block Texts – What to Do

Telemarketers and promoters are very good at finding ways to avoid text message blocks. For example, if the sender appears as private or unknown, you won’t be able to block the number the usual way. However, there is a way to work around this issue.

These methods don’t necessarily yield the same results as blocking known senders, but they should still save you the annoyance of unwanted messages. The following sections provide tips and tricks on how to deal with texts your iPhone won’t block. There is also a quick overview of carrier-specific apps and services that can help with the problem.

iMessages Spam Reports

When you get an iMessage from an unknown sender, the message features a “Report Junk” option. Once you tap on that option, the sender ID and the message get forwarded to Apple. They analyze the message and the sender to determine if it’s spam or a bot. Once your report has been analyzed, that person won’t be able to send you more messages.

As you can see, this is not exactly the fastest way to get rid of unsolicited messages. However, you shouldn’t wait for more than a few days before the sender is blocked for good.

Alternative Method

Unless you see the “Report Junk” option, you can always email Apple about the problem. This method requires you to screenshot the message and include the sender’s phone number or email. In addition, you need the message time and date.

Gather all that information and send it to imessage.spam@apple.com. It won’t hurt to write a brief explanation of your problem either.

Message Filters

As said, blocking regular texts (not iMessages) from unknown senders cannot be done the usual way. But there is an option to filter the messages and have them separate from the ones you wish to receive. This works much like the spam folder for your email, which means you’ll still receive the messages, but you won’t get any notifications.

To set the filter, launch Settings, go into the Messages menu and then tap the button next to “Filter Unknown Senders” to toggle it on. Once you do this, an “Unknown Senders” tab appears in the Messages app and all the messages will go there.

Again, this is not the same as blocking the sender altogether, but it’s a good compromise.

Report the Sender to Your Carrier

It’s important to note that Apple only deals with texts (with the exception of iMessages) from known senders. If the previous methods failed to save you from incessant senders, feel free to report them to your carrier. The reporting options can vary from one carrier to another, and you usually have to send the message to a special number, email the carrier, or contact customer support.

For example, if you use AT&T, send the message you want to block to 7726 (SPAM). The carrier then analyzes it, and if all goes well, it should soon be blocked.

Carrier Blocking Apps and Services

To stay ahead of telemarketers and persistent texters, most carriers provide a special service or an app to block calls and texts. If you have trouble blocking texts on your iPhone, these apps may be an effective solution. Here is a quick rundown of these services and apps.

Block Calls & Messages: Verizon

This safety feature from Verizon is free and it’s designed to prevent cyberbullying and put a stop to unwanted texts. It allows you to block five phone numbers for every line. The block lasts for three months and you can renew it after the time limit expires.

In addition, Verizon offers Usage Controls which block twenty numbers without any time limit. Besides texts, this also allows you to block pictures, calls, and video messages from those numbers.

Secure Family: AT&T

It’s easy to guess by the name – this is not a simple message and calls blocker but full-on parental controls software. The app itself is paid, though you do get the first month for free and it pretty much allows you to monitor and block anything you can think of. Texts, websites, App Store purchases, calls – you name it, this app can block it.

Admittedly, this might be a bit of overkill just to get rid of some unwanted texts. However, if you are afraid your children might be exposed to harassment via text messages and want to put an end to it, then it’s money well-spent.

Message Blocking: T-Mobile

T-Mobile’s Message Blocking is a service that can be activated via the T-Mobile app or My T-Mobile. It’s free of charge and allows you to quickly block any messages, calls, or emails. But there are certain limitations.

For example, you cannot block standard messages with shortcodes. On the bright side, these messages can be blocked with the iPhone’s native options.

Limits and Permissions: Sprint

Sprint users can easily block texts on their iPhone via My Sprint. You need to sign in with your Sprint username and password, select the My Preferences tab, and choose “Block texts” under “Limits and Permissions.”

There are several blocking options, and they include all inbound messages, specific numbers, shortcodes, and more. However, if you are receiving texts from unknown senders, it might be best to contact Sprint for more information on how to block them.

Unlock the Block

Blocking texts on an iPhone might not be as easy as you think, but these problems are not isolated to iOS devices. Android users also might need to utilize carrier services and reporting methods to deal with a spammer.

Have you ever been in a situation where you needed to block certain text messages? Did they come from unknown senders or was there some other reason you wanted them blocked? Share your experiences with the rest of the community in the comments section below.