Depending on where you live, telemarketing can be a real problem. Once these companies get a hold of your number, they can be relentless. Now, while the first notion we associate with telemarketers is an extremely annoying phone call promising something for nothing, text messages are not far behind in either frequency or the degree of frustration they can cause. This holds particularly true when you’re just trying to get some rest after a long day.
Furthermore, unwanted text messages can also be a lot more personal in nature. Let’s say you had a bad breakup. In some cases, your ex may choose to ignore the fact that midnight texts are no longer a welcome sight.
Alternatively, it’s possible you had an altercation with someone and that person managed to somehow get your number. They could insist on attempting to set the record straight or could simply be trying to get under your skin with a deluge of infuriating text messages. Either way, your Google Pixel 2/2 XL can see to it that you are not left at their mercy.
Blocking Text Messages
Before we get to the actual process, which is very simple, a quick note. When you use them to block a number, modern phones, Pixel 2/2 XL included, automatically block both calls and text messages from the number in question. Therefore, when you decide to take this step, you don’t need to go through the process twice in order to cover both means of communication. Consequently, that’s why the method to block text messages is identical to the way you block voice calls.
Once you enter the Settings menu, select “Call blocking”
Onto the process itself. Open the phone app from your home screen. Next, tap the icon with the three dots in the top right corner and then select “Settings”.
Once you enter the Settings menu, select “Call blocking”.
In here, press “Add a number”. Enter the offending phone number and it’s done. To reiterate, this will block both text messages and voice calls.
This menu is also where you can unblock any number you’d previously blacklisted. Just tap the “x” icon and the block will be lifted.
Alternatives
If for whatever reason, you want a different way to block text messages, you have two options. For one, you can contact your mobile carrier. They may be able to do this but might force you to jump through some hoops before they agree to help. Or they could refuse your request altogether. Furthermore, this may involve additional fees.
Secondly, you can find many apps on the Google Play Store to address this issue. However, there are always risks involved when you use unofficial software, particularly when it’s to modify a basic function of the phone itself. That’s why we do not recommend using third-party apps when the built-in solution can do the job perfectly well.
Conclusion
Whatever reasons you may have to block text messages from a certain number, this is how you do it. This process also prevents voice calls from that number so your peace of mind is guaranteed. And if you ever have a change of heart, you can easily undo it.
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