Verizon helps block 11B spam texts, 26.5B Robocalls and counting

Rhea-AI Summary

Verizon is enhancing its spam text and robocall prevention efforts to ensure better communication for users. In 2021, it processed 267 billion text messages and blocked over 11 billion spam texts. New Call Filter enhancements will categorize incoming calls, aiding users in identifying spam. From May to June 2022, Verizon blocked 2.5 billion unwanted calls. The company follows strict industry guidelines, requiring organizations to obtain consent for messages. With a revenue of $133.6 billion in 2021, Verizon remains a leader in technology and communication services.

Positive

• Blocked over 11 billion spam texts in 2021, ensuring better user communication.
• Enhanced Call Filter will help identify spam calls by categorizing them.

Negative

• None.

If you or someone you know receives a spam text message, report it by simply forwarding the message to 7726 (SPAM) from your mobile phone.

NEW YORK, Aug. 11, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Text messages are among the most trusted ways to communicate with one another, as well as for organizations to communicate with customers who have opted-in to receive messages. Verizon works hard behind the scenes to help block the bad while protecting the good. In 2021 alone, Verizon’s advanced systems processed 267 billion text messages and blocked delivery of more than 11 billion spam texts to wireless customers from senders misusing our consumer platform. As new spam campaigns are introduced, Verizon continues to tighten measures to protect customers.

Helping organizations and individuals ensure the right texts get through

As more organizations are communicating with customers via text message, Verizon continues to work toward ensuring that legitimate texts reach customers without risk of being blocked. For this reason, Verizon requires all organizations to comply with industry guidelines that, among other things, require organizations to obtain consent prior to sending texts as well as to honor opt-out requests.

There’s also an easy step customers can take in the fight to stop spam texters. If you or someone you know receives a spam text message, report it by simply forwarding the message to 7726 (SPAM) from your mobile phone, and never respond to or click on a link in a message you are not expecting.

Meaningful progress on robocalls with enhancements to Call Filter

It’s not just spam texts that are a nuisance: robocalls can be pests as well. That’s why we’re doing even more to help customers know who is calling with new enhancements to Call Filter. When customers receive a call from a phone number not saved in their contacts list, Call Filter will soon label calls with a category such as health care or public service. This new feature will help customers decide whether or not to answer a call.

In fact, from May to June 2022 alone, with the use of STIR/SHAKEN, Call Filter and additional tools, Verizon identified or blocked 2.5 billion unwanted calls for wireless customers, detecting more than 26.5 billion spam calls to date. And for our wireline customers, Verizon labels 1.2M calls with [V] for verified callers and 85K with [SPAM?] for robocalls for more than 3M Fios voice customers, on a daily basis.

Spam text and robocall prevention efforts build on the company’s network-as-a-service foundation and support core areas of growth and innovation across mobility.

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) was formed on June 30, 2000 and is one of the world’s leading providers of technology and communications services. Headquartered in New York City and with a presence around the world, Verizon generated revenues of $133.6 billion in 2021. The company offers data, video and voice services and solutions on its award-winning networks and platforms, delivering on customers’ demand for mobility, reliable network connectivity, security and control.

VERIZON’S ONLINE MEDIA CENTER: News releases, stories, media contacts and other resources are available at verizon.com/news. News releases are also available through an RSS feed. To subscribe, visit www.verizon.com/about/rss-feeds/.

Media contact:
Ashley Colette
ashley.colette@verizon.com

FAQ

What recent spam prevention measures has Verizon implemented?

Verizon has enhanced its spam text and robocall prevention measures, blocking over 11 billion spam texts in 2021 and introducing new features for identifying spam calls.

How many unwanted calls did Verizon block between May and June 2022?

Verizon blocked 2.5 billion unwanted calls between May and June 2022 through its Call Filter and other tools.

What are the revenue figures for Verizon in 2021?

Verizon generated revenues of $133.6 billion in 2021, making it one of the top providers in technology and communications.

How does Verizon ensure legitimate texts reach customers?

Verizon requires organizations to follow industry guidelines, including obtaining consent before sending texts and honoring opt-out requests.