Unwanted texts from email addresses have become increasingly common in recent years. These texts are often sent by scammers and spammers trying to obtain personal information or spread malware. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to block these unwanted texts on both iPhones and Android devices.
Table of Contents
Why Texts Are Sent from Emails
Email addresses can send text messages through an email gateway system. This allows the email address to be converted into a phone number that can then send SMS text messages.
Here are some key reasons why texts may be sent from email addresses:
- Cost – Emails can send texts for free through the gateway system, avoiding text messaging fees. This makes it economical for high-volume spamming.
- Anonymity – The sender can hide behind an email address instead of revealing a phone number.
- Easy Access – Email accounts are easy to create anonymously, allowing spammers to constantly create new accounts.
While these gateways have legitimate uses, they unfortunately enable unwanted spam texts from dodgy email accounts.
Blocking Unwanted Email Texts on iPhones
iPhones have robust blocking capabilities when it comes to SMS texts sent from email addresses:
Enable Filter Unknown Senders
- Go to Settings > Messages
- Scroll down and tap Filter Unknown Senders under Message Filtering
- Turn on the Filter Unknown Senders toggle
This will move texts from unknown email addresses to a separate list so they no longer clutter your main inbox.
Block Specific Email Addresses
To block a specific email address:
- Open the message thread from that address
- Tap the sender’s name/info at the top
- Select Info
- Choose Block this Caller
You’ll then have the option to Block or Block & Report Spam. This will prevent any further texts from this email address.
Use Third-Party Blocking Apps
If you want more advanced blocking capabilities, apps like RoboKiller and TextKiller use algorithms to automatically detect and block spam texts. These apps provide a further layer of protection.
Blocking Unwanted Email Texts on Android
The process is similar for Android devices:
Block Senders in Android Messages
If you use the default Messages app:
- Open the spam text
- Tap the 3-dot menu icon
- Choose either Block number or Details > Block & report spam
This will block any further texts from that email address.
Block Contacts in Phone App
- Open the Phone app
- Go to Contacts
- Tap the contact entry for the email address
- Select Block number or Block contact
Use Carrier Services
Most major carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile offer additional spam text protection through their own apps or account management portals. Check with your provider.
Download Third-Party Blocking Apps
As with iPhones, advanced spam text apps like RoboKiller provide robust blocking of unwanted email texts on Android devices.
Reporting Unwanted Texts from Emails
When you receive an unwanted text from an email, it’s important to report it so carriers can block the address.
Report on iPhone
When blocking a sender in iOS (see steps above), choose Block & Report Spam when prompted. This submits a complaint to carriers for further blocking.
Report on Android
In the Messages app, tap the 3-dot menu icon and then choose Report spam. This registers the complaint for carrier review.
Reporting unwanted email texts helps carriers identify and block emerging spam patterns.
Final Recommendations
- Be vigilant about blocking suspicious numbers
- Use carrier spam protections when available
- Download advanced third-party spam blocking apps
- Always report unwanted texts from emails to aid carriers
Following these best practices for blocking texts from emails will help eliminate the vast majority of spam and keep your inbox clear. Be proactive and take advantage of all available blocking options.
