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Texts not sending? Instructions for removing an SMS short code block on your device

If you are unable to send text messages to Shout from the major networks EE, O2, Three and Vodafone, which include – BT Mobile, Tesco Mobile, Virgin Mobile, iD Mobile, Sky, Telecom Plus, Lebara and GiffGaff, it may be that you have blocked shortcode numbers on your device.

If your device says you will be charged, please press accept - you will not be charged but by accepting the pop up, this will allow you to use the service and not block short codes.

If you have said deny to the pop up, you will have to go through the unblock process on your phone.

Please follow these instructions for how to do this:

Here are the instructions to remove the block, there are two different ways to do it, depending on your device. Try which one is right for you:


Removing A Short Code Block

Changing Phone Settings #1

To change the settings in your Android device, these are basic instructions to remove the shortcode block. Device instructions may vary.

  1. Press Menu from the home screen.
  2. Select Settings.
  3. Select More at the top right hand corner of your screen.
  4. Select Application Manager.
  5. Slide the screen to the All section.
  6. Select Messages.
  7. Under the Permissions section, you will find a drop down menu with 3 options for sending premium sms.
  8. Select the desired option; Ask is the default.

Changing Phone Settings #2

  1. From a Home screen, navigate: Apps Apps icon > Settings, Settings icon > Apps
  2. Tap App manager
  3. Tap the Menu icon Menu (upper-right)
  4. Tap Special access
  5. Tap Use Premium text message service
  6. Tap the app then select an option: (Note Apps listed vary and only appear if they've previously been used for premium messaging)
    • Ask
    • Never allow
    • Always allow

iPhone and Android Devices

If you are unable to text short code numbers please contact your mobile network customer service department who should be able to help you unblock them on your device.

If this doesn't work, you may want to look into some other options for support, via: giveusashout.org/get-help/other-options