Description
This article provides step-by-step guidance on how users can locate SMS messages that have been automatically marked as spam and reclassify them as legitimate (i.e., "not spam"). The instructions are especially focused on cases where users expect to receive One-Time Passwords (OTPs) or access-related support messages from legitimate service providers. It covers popular platforms including Android devices, iPhones (iOS), and Google Messages.
The guide helps users identify filtered messages, retrieve important information like OTPs, and take actions to prevent future misclassification. This is particularly useful in support scenarios where an AI chatbot is assisting users who report missing OTPs or important SMS messages.
Platforms Covered
Android Devices (Samsung, Pixel, etc.)
Apple iPhones (iOS)
Google Messages App (common across many Android phones)
Steps for Each Platform
Android Devices
Locate Spam Messages
Open the Messages app.
Tap the three-dot menu (top-right).
Select “Spam & blocked” or “Spam and junk”.
Mark as Safe
Open the message.
Tap “Not spam” or “Report not spam”.
Confirm the action.
➡️ Optional: Add the sender to contacts to whitelist them.
iPhones (iOS)
Locate Spam or Unknown Messages
Open the Messages app.
Tap “Filters” in the upper-left corner.
Tap “Unknown Senders” to review filtered messages.
Mark as Safe
iOS doesn’t have a “not spam” button, but users can:
Tap the number at the top of the message thread.
Tap “Info” → “Add to Contacts”.
➡️ Optional: Go to Settings > Messages > Unknown & Spam to disable filtering temporarily.
Google Messages App
Locate Spam Messages
Open Google Messages.
Tap the menu icon (≡ or ⋮).
Select “Spam & blocked”.
Mark as Safe
Open the message thread.
Tap “Not spam” or “Move to inbox” at the top of the screen.
Confirm when prompted.
➡️ Google's AI learns from this action to reduce future errors.
✅ Best Practices
Always verify the sender before marking a message as safe.
Add trusted numbers to contacts when possible.
If OTPs are consistently filtered, consider adjusting SMS filter settings or contacting your mobile service provider.