How to Stop Spam Texts
Spam texts are unsolicited messages from marketers, scammers, political campaigns, and businesses. Here's how to identify, stop, and document them.
What counts as a spam text?
Any text message you didn't ask to receive is potentially spam. This includes marketing offers, political campaign messages, phishing attempts, and automated alerts from businesses you don't have a relationship with. Even legitimate businesses must get your consent before sending promotional texts under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA).
How to stop spam texts
Reply STOP to the message — most legitimate senders are required to honor opt-out requests. Don't click any links in the message, as they can confirm your number is active and lead to more spam. Block the sender's number on your phone, and enable your phone's built-in spam filter to filter unknown senders.
Report spam texts
Forward the message to 7726 (SPAM) — your carrier's spam reporting service. You can also file a complaint with the FCC at fcc.gov/complaints. If you haven't already, register your number on the National Do Not Call Registry at donotcall.gov.
Document spam texts with CivicShield
CivicShield helps you document each spam text with the sender, date, and content. Log each incident, note when you opted out, and track whether the sender continues — so repeat contacts after an opt-out request are documented, not just deleted.
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
Is replying STOP safe?
Replying STOP is safe for legitimate senders — they're required to honor it. But don't click any links in the message, as they can confirm your number is active. If you're unsure whether the sender is legitimate, block the number instead.
Why am I getting so many spam texts?
Your number may be on lists sold or shared between marketers. Data brokers compile phone numbers from public records, app sign-ups, and online forms. Registering on the Do Not Call Registry and opting out of each sender can reduce the volume over time.
Can I stop all spam texts?
No tool can stop all spam texts — scammers ignore the rules. But you can significantly reduce legitimate spam by opting out, blocking numbers, and enabling your phone's spam filter. CivicShield helps you document what gets through so you can take action on repeat offenders.
Are spam texts illegal?
Many spam texts violate the TCPA, which requires consent for automated marketing texts. But enforcement varies, and scammers often operate outside the law. Documenting unwanted texts helps you build a record if you need to file a complaint.
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Disclaimer: CivicShield is a consumer privacy and documentation tool, not a law firm. CivicShield does not provide legal advice or guarantee a particular legal outcome. Laws and regulations vary by circumstance and jurisdiction. References to laws such as the TCPA or CAN-SPAM Act are for general informational purposes only — consult authoritative sources like the FCC and FTC for official guidance.