A 7728 text message is not spam itself; it is the official, free-to-use short code provided by major carriers like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile for you to report unwanted spam texts. By forwarding a suspicious message to this number, you are helping your mobile provider identify and block spammers.
If you’re tired of receiving junk texts about fake package deliveries, phony refunds, or other scams, using the 7728 service is the most effective first step you can take. This guide provides simple, step-by-step instructions on how to report these messages correctly.
What is the 7728 (SPAM) Short Code?
The number 7728 was chosen because it spells SPAM on a traditional phone keypad, making it easy for users to remember. It is a centralized reporting system used by most major mobile carriers in North America.
When you forward a spam text to this number, you are sending a report directly to your carrier’s security team. This is a completely free service; you will not be charged for any messages you send to 7728. Its purpose is to help carriers track and combat the sources of SMS spam and phishing (also known as “smishing”).
How to Report a Spam Text Message Using 7728 (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple instructions to report a spam text. The process is very similar for both iPhone and Android devices.
- Do NOT reply to the spam message. Never click on any links or call any numbers in the text. Responding only confirms to the scammer that your number is active.
- Press and hold down on the message bubble of the spam text until a pop-up menu of options appears.
- Tap on the “Forward” (On some Android phones, you may need to tap “More” or the three-dot menu icon first, then select “Forward”).
- This will open a new, blank text message with the spam content copied into the body. In the “To:” recipient field, type 7728.
- Press Send.
That’s it. You have successfully reported the message to your carrier.
What Happens After You Forward the Spam Text?
Once you send the report, a few things will happen:
- You’ll Get a Confirmation: You will likely receive an immediate automated reply from your carrier (e.g., from AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile) thanking you for submitting the report.
- The Carrier Investigates: Your carrier’s security team will analyze the content of the message, any links it contains, and the phone number it came from.
- The Data is Used to Fight Spam: This information helps carriers identify spamming campaigns and fraudulent numbers. They can then block the sender at the network level, preventing them from sending messages to other customers. The data also helps improve their automatic spam filters.
While reporting one message won’t stop all spam forever, you are contributing to a massive database that helps protect everyone. After reporting, it’s also a good idea to manually block the number on your phone to prevent it from contacting you again directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does forwarding a message to 7728 automatically block the number?
Not always on your specific device. Reporting to 7728 gives the carrier the information to block the number across their network. For immediate relief, you should also use your phone’s “Block this Caller” feature after you’ve forwarded the message.
Is 7728 for all carriers?
This service is supported by all major U.S. carriers, including AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile, as well as most smaller carriers. It is the industry-standard method for reporting SMS spam in North America.
Can I just type a spammer’s number and send it to 7728?
No, this will not work. You must forward the original, complete spam message. The carriers’ systems need to analyze the full content and metadata of the message to conduct an effective investigation.
What’s the difference between reporting spam and just blocking a number?
Blocking a number only protects you. Reporting the message to 7728 helps your carrier protect everyone on their network. Doing both is the most effective strategy.
Conclusion
The 7728 text message service is your best defense against the growing problem of SMS spam and phishing. It’s a simple, free, and effective tool that empowers you to take action. By remembering to forward suspicious messages instead of just deleting them, you not only clean up your own inbox but also contribute to a safer mobile experience for millions of other people.
