Spiking that spam (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Spiking that spam

4:36pm Tuesday 5th July 2011 in News

Spam Messages Suck. That’s not SMS’s original meaning, but apt enough.

To fight back, first identify which of three types of unwanted texts it is.

Legitimate, unwanted marketing texts usually stem from forgetting to opt out of a marketing form.

They come from a normal 11-digit mobile number and always identify the company they’re from. So contact it (by web/phone) to opt out.

Premium texts are messages you PAY to receive that you’re probably unaware you signed up for, such as news alerts or ringtone services.

They’re easily spotted, as they’ll be from a four, five or sixdigit mobile number. Text STOP or STOP NOW to stop them.

If it’s pure unsolicited spam, DON’T REPLY. It’ll be from a normal 11-digit mobile phone number.

It’s a phishing expedition; replying shows your number’s active and it could then be sold on.

Full info on minimising spam texts at moneysavingexpert.com/spamtexts