How to Block Ads and Spam Messages on Google Messages
As of late, Google has made it compulsory for new Android devices to have Google Messages pre-installed, replacing the stock messaging apps provided by manufacturers. This change has been implemented to coincide with the mandatory use of Google Dialer and Messages app.
Google states that it enhances the user experience on Android by incorporating the capabilities of instant messaging through the use of modern SMS technology called RCS (Rich Communication Service).
Despite the benefits of modern SMS technology, one major drawback is the prevalence of spam messages. If these unsolicited messages have become a nuisance for you, you can learn how to block them on the Google Messages app.
Blocking Ads and Spam Messages on Google Messages
The Google Messages app boasts various functions, one of which is the RCS (Rich Communication Services) that enhances communication. For individuals who may not be acquainted, RCS enables users to send high-quality photos and videos, participate in group chats, share reactions, and more.
Despite the potential benefits, some companies are misusing this technology by bombarding users with unwanted visual ads or spam messages through the RCS feature. Whether or not your phone has a functioning SIM card, if it is connected to the internet, you will still receive these pesky ads or messages.
Continue reading to discover various ways to prevent these ads or spam messages from appearing on Google Messages.
Manually Block and Report Spam
If you are being bombarded with advertisements or unsolicited image messages from a specific brand or company, you can effectively handle the issue by blocking them. Here’s a simple guide on how to do so:
To begin, access the Google Messages app on your device by following Step 1.
Step 2: Press on the spam message to open it.
Step 3: Select the three-dot icon located at the upper-right corner.
Step 4: Click on Block and Report Spam. Lastly, select Block to confirm.
If you do this, you will no longer receive any visual advertisements from the brand. Additionally, certain brands provide an unsubscribe option; simply click on it if you wish to remove your number from their list.
Deactivate RCS Chats
If you are fed up with constantly blocking messages from various brands, you have the option to disable RCS chats on the app. Simply follow the steps below to turn it off.
To begin, launch the Google Messages app on your phone.
Step 2: Click on the profile icon located at the top right corner.
Step 3: Choose Messages settings, followed by General.
Step 4: Select RCS chats and toggle off Turn on RCS chats. Confirm the action. On certain devices, the option may be labeled Enable chat features. If so, disable it.
Activate Spam Protection
To prevent receiving regular spam messages, you can activate spam protection within the application. Once this feature is enabled, Google Messages will automatically identify and filter spam messages, labeling them as such and sending them to a separate folder. Follow these steps to enable spam protection:
To begin, access the Google Messages app on your phone by following Step 1:Open the app.
Step 2: Navigate to the top of the page and click on the profile icon. From there, select Messages settings.
To proceed, choose the General option from the available settings in Step 3.
Step 4: Select Spam protection and toggle the switch to activate spam protection.
To access the messages that have been blocked by Google Messages, click on the three-line icon located at the top-left corner and choose Spam & blocked. This will display a list of all the messages that Google has identified as spam and prevented from reaching you.
Explore Alternative Applications
Switching to a different messaging app is an alternative method for eliminating ads or spam messages.
Apps such as Microsoft SMS Organizer and Signal offer features similar to RCS and other useful capabilities. Therefore, consider switching to an alternative as they can help you avoid unwanted RCS spam.
In conclusion, we have reached the end of our discussion.
Overall, these methods are highly effective in preventing ads or spam messages on the Google Messages app. I trust that this article has assisted you in decluttering the app from bothersome messages.
If you have any inquiries regarding the article, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below.
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