Google Messages introduces 'Unsubscribe' button to combat spam
Google Messages is introducing a built-in “Unsubscribe” button aimed at providing users with an efficient way to stop automated messages. This initiative is part of the company's broader efforts to enhance spam control within the application.
Android Authority reports that the new feature appears as a prompt at the end of spammy texts, allowing users to quickly disconnect by simply tapping on “unsubscribe to stop receiving messages.”
Upon tapping the button, users will see a pop-up that not only assures them that a "Stop" message will be sent to the sender, but also asks for the reason behind opting out. There are five categories to choose from: “not signed up,” “too many messages,” “no longer interested,” “spam,” or “other.” This granular approach to block spam grants users more control over their messaging preferences.
After a user opts out, they will receive a notification confirming that the unsubscribe request has been sent. Additionally, a “Start” button will appear, permitting users to resubscribe if they change their minds later.
This functionality is not entirely new to the app. Google Messages has previously allowed users to block or report suspicious senders directly. The updated interface promises an even more streamlined approach to managing unwanted communications. Users can also set up Spam Protection from the Settings to detect potential spam messages.
The Unsubscribe button is being rolled out in various regions including the United States, the United Kingdom, Brazil, France, Germany, India, Mexico, and Spain. It is being tested through the Google Messages beta program. The feature is also being tested for RCS Business Messages.
Source: Android Central
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Problem is if you unsubscribe to something that you never actually subscribed to its likely you will get more unsubscribed scam
This is good for legit subscription. But for automated, scam messages, sending them STOP will let them know there is a real person behind the number. I don’t see how this is a good idea.
Unless the message returns to the sender because the recipient does factually not exist (or has been bounced by the recipient’s dedicated email tool to pretend so), the sender knows the recipient does exist. Receiving a STOP only adds a ‘Move off’ to the ‘I do exist’ which the sender already knew.
This said, the old method to add the intruder to a blacklist seems quite sufficient : personally I admit the pleasure of knowing the sender repeat his sending while not being sure if his email/message dives to the recipient’s garbage or shrinks his hesitations. In an analogy with rude machos who assume that because they haven’t been slapped by the lady they still stand a chance :)
Side-note : the reason behind opting out is none of Google’s business.