On average, Android users receive approximately 55 billion spam texts per year. This is why they need to have a message blocking capability incorporated.

If you’ve ever run into the ‘Message Blocking Is Active‘ error message-or if you want to stop unwanted SMS this comprehensive guide will give the lowdown on all things Android message security and how to block spam text in particular.

Unwanted messages pose not only problems for attention and security, but they can also be quite dangerous. There are phishing scams that take unsuspecting people’s money, and some messages you shouldn’t click or open. Learning how to block SMS on Android will help protect your privacy.

How to Block a Number on Android

The most direct way to stop the problem is by using your phone’s own text message application. The guide below is based on Android 9 and, therefore, should not be regarded as absolute; there are some differences in older versions of Android in the position or name of menus and feature paths.

Step-by-step blocking process:

1. Open your default Messages app
2. Locate the conversation containing unwanted messages
3. Tap and hold the specific message or conversation
4. Select the three-dot menu (⋮) in the upper right corner
5. Choose “Block number” or “Block contact”
6. Confirm your selection by tapping “OK”

For Samsung devices specifically:

The One UI provided by Samsung will have slightly different methods of handling. You may find “Block contact” in the conversation menu. Look directly for it or find “Blocked numbers” in Settings to manage your list.

Once blocked, messages from the number will no longer appear in your primary inbox. The sender will not be informed they’ve been blocked. Their messages do not reach you.

Alternative Blocking Methods Using Third-Party Apps

In case this isn’t enough, many third-party apps provide an extra layer of protection. Through the use of advanced algorithms and community-sourced data, these applications block spam far more efficiently than AT&T Mobile Security or similar applications for Android.

Some popular third-party solutions focus on specialising in blocking messages. Others offer spam detection capabilities at the same time. Many of these systems feature an Intelligent message filter that learns from users’ behavior and global spam trends.

Top SMS Filtering Apps Comparison

These applications typically offer more sophisticated filtering options, including keyword blocking, pattern recognition, and real-time spam database updates.

Benefits of Blocking Spam Texts

Implementing effective message blocking provides multiple layers of protection for Android users:

Security advantages:

• Prevents phishing attacks (smishing) that attempt to steal personal information
• Blocks malicious links that could install malware on your device
• Reduces exposure to fraudulent schemes and scams

Privacy benefits:

• Stops unknown numbers from accessing your personal messaging space
• Eliminates unwanted marketing communications
• Provides control over who can contact you directly

Productivity improvements:

• Reduces interruptions from irrelevant messages
• Keeps your inbox focused on important communications
• Minimizes the need to manually delete spam messages

Data and battery savings:

• Prevents unnecessary data usage from spam message downloads
• Reduces battery drain from constant unwanted notifications
• Optimizes device performance by filtering out junk messages

Android message security becomes significantly stronger when you actively manage blocked numbers and regularly update your spam protection settings.

Troubleshooting “Message Blocking Is Active” Errors

Sometimes Android users encounter blocking-related issues that prevent legitimate messages from being sent or received. The “Message Blocking Is Active” error typically appears when:

• Your carrier has enabled spam filtering that’s too aggressive
• You’ve accidentally blocked important contacts
• Network settings are interfering with message delivery

Resolution steps:

1. Check your blocked numbers list in Messages Settings
2. Contact your carrier to review account-level blocking settings
3. Restart your device to refresh network connections
4. Clear your messaging app’s cache and data if problems persist

Advanced Android Message Security Tips

Apart from the basic blocking options, consider these extra security features:

• Spam protection should be enabled: Most of the contemporary Android SMS apps come with spam detection built in. To check it, go to Messages > Settings > Spam protection and ensure the box is checked.
• Routine maintenance: Review your blocked numbers list every month so that while adding new spam numbers, you can remove numbers that are no longer relevant.
• Report suspicious messages: Forward spam messages to 7726 (SPAM) to assist carriers in improving their filtering and protecting others. 
• Don’t engage: Spammers will treat your “STOP” as confirmation that your number is active. Don’t engage with suspicious messages.

Take Control of Your Android Messages

Effective blocking of messages transforms your Android device from a magnet for spam to a secure means of communication. It doesn’t matter whether you accomplish this by using the built-in features that come with Android or with third-party applications; the important thing is to think grandly, be alert to operating both current threats and the latest spam techniques.

Block obvious spam numbers using your personal cell phone’s native functions, and if you need more advanced protection, consider switching to professional software. In your message blocking system, regularly updating your blocked lists will make sure it continues to be useful against new threats that arise.

Remember that message blocking is only an element of overall mobile security. By combining it with our suspecting links and keeping your phone updated, however, you create a good defense against unwanted communications and potential security threats.