Many people reply "STOP" to spam text messages because it feels like the right thing to do. However, this article explains why that action can actually make the problem worse:
When you reply, spammers learn that your phone number is active. This makes your number more valuable, so they may send you even more spam or sell your number to others. Many scammers also ignore stop requests, so your reply does not protect you.
The safest choice is not to reply at all. If you stay silent, spammers cannot confirm that a real person is using the number. This helps protect your privacy.
Instead, you should report the message as spam using your phone’s built-in tools. This helps your mobile carrier improve spam filters. After reporting, block the number and then delete the message to keep your inbox clean and avoid clicking links by mistake.
You should also never click links in spam texts, because they can lead to fake websites or track your activity. Finally, check your spam and privacy settings from time to time, since phone updates can change them.
In short, ignoring spam, reporting it, and blocking the sender is much safer than replying "STOP".
Why You Should Never Reply "STOP" to a Spam Text
Seyed Hamed Vahedi
Wed, 4 February, 2026