How can I report SMS spam and potentially receive compensation?
Summary
What email marketers say11Marketer opinions
Email marketer from FTC.gov shares that you can report spam texts to the FTC. The FTC uses these reports to identify and take action against those engaged in illegal texting practices.
Email marketer from Email Geeks shares that after determining who is behind the SMS spam, you can send a TCPA demand letter for potential statutory fines. Your number needs to be on the Federal do not call list for at least 30 days. This works with real companies, not scammers.
Email marketer from Experian explains you should not reply to spam texts. Responding verifies your number is active, potentially leading to more spam.
Email marketer from Digital Trends explains that you can block the number sending SMS Spam. However it doesn't stop the spammers, they'll just use another number.
Email marketer from Email Geeks shares that after getting spam, one should first demand their $750 reward by taking screenshots then hit 7726 on it.
Email marketer from Reddit explains that if the SMS spam constitutes harassment or stalking, you might be able to seek a restraining order or pursue other legal actions in addition to reporting the spam to authorities. Legal action may lead to compensation.
Email marketer from TCPA Attorney Blog shares that if a company sends you SMS spam without your consent, it's a TCPA violation. You can hire a TCPA attorney to investigate your case and potentially sue the company for compensation, typically ranging from $500 to $1500 per violation.
Email marketer from Quora explains that some apps or services offer rewards or compensation for reporting spam texts. Check with your mobile provider or third-party apps designed to combat spam for such opportunities.
Email marketer from Malwarebytes shares that a lot of mobile security software can automatically identify spam texts. This will block and filter the texts out and potentially identify the source.
Email marketer from Reddit explains that a lawyer should be hired to send out letters, and you shouldn't do it yourself. Most TCPA lawyers will send letters free of charge and only take a percentage if they win the case.
Email marketer from Reddit explains that if you receive spam texts that violate the TCPA, you may be able to sue the sender for damages. Consult with a lawyer specializing in TCPA cases to explore this option. The fine can be $500-$1500 per violation.
What the experts say5Expert opinions
Expert from Spam Resource explains that one of the most effective ways to report SMS spam is by forwarding the message to your mobile carrier. This is typically done by sending the message to the short code 7726 (SPAM).
Expert from Spam Resource shares that you can report SMS spam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC collects these reports and uses them to identify patterns and take action against spammers.
Expert from Email Geeks explains 7726 (SPAM) should go to your provider for review, it's like hitting the SMS 'report spam' button which helps them with future spam filtering.
Expert from Spam Resource suggests that it is possible to take legal action against SMS spammers, particularly if they violate the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA). This often involves consulting with a lawyer specializing in TCPA violations.
Expert from Email Geeks shares to forward SMS spam to 7726.
What the documentation says4Technical articles
Documentation from the Telephone Consumer Protection Act explains consumers have the right to sue for SMS spam. Damages are typically $500 to $1500 per unsolicited message. This gives a route to compensation through legal action.
Documentation from Apple support explains how to filter messages from unknown senders. Apple has implemented functionality within the Messages app to filter iMessages from senders who are not in your contacts list.
Documentation from FCC.gov explains you can file a complaint with the FCC regarding unwanted text messages. The FCC investigates complaints and can take action against violators of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA).
Documentation from CTIA.org explains that forwarding unwanted SMS messages to 7726 (SPAM) helps wireless providers identify and block spammers. This is a standard method across most carriers.