Vodafone has launched a blacklist service that will allow mobile phone users to block unwanted text messages and pictures in a bid to counter text bullying .
The free blacklisting option will be available from Monday and is the first such service to be introduced in New Zealand.
Vodafone customers can text ``Blacklist Add [mobile number]'' to 713, which will prevent any further messages or photos coming through from that number, from the Vodafone or any other network.
Vodafone will not inform the person they have been blacklisted.
However, the service will not block calls and the list is limited to 20 per mobile phone.
A blacklisted number can be removed at any time.
Vodafone receives about 6000 calls a year regarding text bullying and the company said it recognised the need to give customers the freedom to choose who they could be contacted by.
Vodafone general manager of consumer marketing, Kursten Shalfoon, said the blacklist was the first phase in a plan to give customers more control around who can contact them.
``A second phase of increased controls for parents will be launched in early 2011.''
Mobile phone bullying `blacklist' launched
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