🌇 Riding off into the sunset: Verizon’s Message+ is shutting down in November. The suggested replacement is Google Messages, which really is your best bet. It supports RCS texting, the new standard that makes it easier to send pics and videos.
Use this trick to stop spam texts on your Android phone
Spam messages are no longer confined to your email inbox. They can now show up on your phone as text messages. Spam messages can range from harmless and annoying to invasive and dangerous.
Carriers and smartphone developers offer built-in tools to combat spam. You can block calls and filter numbers from unknown senders if you have an iPhone. You can even report spam messages as junk. Tap or click here to learn more.
Android fans also have recourse against spam. The Google Messages app includes spam text blocking and the ability to report these messages. Keep reading to find out how to stop annoying spam texts.
Google’s built-in tools
You have a couple of options to deal with spam when it comes to Google Messages. You can block a number from messaging you or report it and block it simultaneously.
To block messages from any number:
- Open the Messages app.
- Touch and hold the conversation you want to block on the Home screen.
- Tap Block > OK.
To report and block a conversation:
- Open the Messages app.
- Touch and hold the conversation you want to report.
- Tap Block > Report spam > OK.
You can also block and report a conversation from within the message:
- Open the conversation in your Messages app and tap the three dots for more options.
- Tap Details > Block & report spam > OK.
Tech tip: How to send GIFs without downloading any extra apps
Messaging has come a long way since the first text was sent. You no longer need to be witty or expressive with just your words. Your phone has built-in features to help you show your meaning and mood. Tap or click here for ways to create your own emoji.
Google caught collecting more of your personal data - Changes are coming
Google users number in the tens of billions when you factor in how many people use Gmail, Chrome, Google Search, Maps, Docs and other Google services. While popular, the tech giant has been called out for privacy concerns on numerous occasions.
Android just got an update that makes it easier to chat with iPhone users
The two dominant mobile phone operating systems have such large user bases it is almost impossible not to communicate with someone on a competing platform. But that can create problems, as Android and iOS are less compatible than you might think. Tap or click here to see an emoji you use all the time probably isn’t what you think.