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How to fix ‘Message blocking is active’ error?

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  • 3 min read

Text messages are still quite important and have retained their significance in the era of online messaging because you may or may not have internet access everywhere, but you do get network coverage. 

However, it still can face issues from time to time. In this article, we’re going over a few fixes you can try out if you’re getting this error.

Also read: Why is my Facetime not working?


What causes the Message blocking is active error?

There are several reasons why you might encounter this error. Here are some of the most common ones.

  • Network outage: The error is often triggered by a network outage from the service provider’s end. 
  • Sending SMS to a blocked contact: Another reason you might see this error is that the person you’re trying to send this message to is in your block list.
  • Premium SMS Access: The error can also be triggered if your phone or carrier isn’t allowed to send or receive premium SMSs. 
  • Short Code issue: T-Mobile users have reported that the problem was being caused by shortcodes that were set to block.

Also read: Why is iMessage not working?


5 ways to fix Message blocking is active error

Here are a few ways you can try and fix this error.

Allow Premium SMS Access

Allowing Premium SMS Access can give your messaging app elevated privileges and help resolve the issue. 

How to fix 'Message blocking is active' error?
  • Head over to your phone’s settings and tap on Apps & notifications.
  • Tap Advanced.
  • Tap Special app access.
How to fix 'Message blocking is active' error?
  • Head over to Premium SMS access.
  • Make sure your messaging app is allowed in the list. 

Now restart your phone and try sending the message again. 


Unblock the receiver

If the person you’re trying to send this message to is in your block list, you’ll get this error. To resolve this, unblock the recipient and try again. On the contrary, you can also face this error when you’re trying to send a message to someone who has blocked you. 


Check your plan

Check to see if text messages are part of your plan. If they aren’t, you’ll experience such issues until you purchase a plan supporting sending messages. 

How to fix 'Message blocking is active' error?

Also, be mindful of your number. If you’ve just bought a new number or have got it ported to another carrier, check to see if your number has been properly activated. 


Check the content

There’s a small chance that this error might be caused by attachments, graphics or pictures in your text messages. Try sending a simple plaintext message to single out the issue. 


Reach out to support

If nothing else works, your best bet is to reach out to customer support and work with them to resolve the issue. 

Also read: How to fix the iMessage signed out error?

 

Yadullah Abidi

Yadullah Abidi

Yadullah is a Computer Science graduate who writes/edits/shoots/codes all things cybersecurity, gaming, and tech hardware. When he's not, he streams himself racing virtual cars. He's been writing and reporting on tech and cybersecurity with websites like Candid.Technology and MakeUseOf since 2018. You can contact him here: yadullahabidi@pm.me.

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