Once the ugly duckling of messaging apps, Google Messages has recently caught on to the big names of the genre. Thanks to the addition of many features such as end-to-end encryption, the latter can rub shoulders with WhatsApp or Messenger without blushing. This is even more true since the integration of the RCS protocol, which makes it a complete and practical solution.
Unfortunately, not everything is rosy for Google Mail. Some areas still badly need improvement. So, despite efforts to combat spam, the app is still full of spam and other questionable text messages. Second, while it provides effective protection against phishing attacks, the same cannot be said for fake messages from obscure sources.
Get rid of spam by disabling RCS
However, Google is not necessarily responsible for this unfortunate situation. Indeed, with the advent of RCS, companies have had the opportunity to present themselves in this way thanks to the verified profile, which gives them the opportunity to post advertising messages specifically to the channel. Also, the radical but effective first solution is to disable these services within the app. Here’s how to go about it:
- to meet Settings From Google Messages
- click Chat Features
- Deactivate Enable chat features
This will block messages from companies that use RCS to deliver their campaigns. On your part, you will be able to continue using the app to send SMS as usual. On the other hand, you will no longer benefit from protocol-based options. So far, that’s the price to pay for effective protection against spam, unfortunately. Google Messages is slowly becoming the default messaging on Android overlays, especially since this solution works on all smartphones.
Get rid of spam by blocking the number
Another solution is to block the number from texting you. Some companies are prudent to offer the option to opt out of their mailing list. To do this, simply click on the link provided in the message (be careful not to be fooled by a fake link that could install malware on your smartphone). If this option is not available, you can also block the number. Here is the procedure to follow:
- Click top right menu
- click Information
- choose Block and report as spam
- check box report as spam
- click OK
This method is just as effective as the first method as you will have to repeat it for every spam received from a suspicious number. The same applies to unsubscribing, where the sender can choose whether to respect it or not. Still, it has the advantage of allowing you to continue enjoying RCS functions.
Get rid of spam by changing email applications
Finally, the last method is just as radical as the first, but certainly effective. While Google Messages is full of spam, other messaging apps are not. Some even prove particularly effective at protecting the user against spam.
This is specifically the case of SMS Organizer released by Microsoft, which includes an automatic filter against spam and advertising campaigns. The application then classifies them in a separate folder, such as a mailbox, giving the user the option to delete or delete them. On the other hand, here again you will have to do without RCS functions.
And you, what are your methods of protecting yourself from spam? Let us know in the comments!
