How To Resolve "Message Blocking Is Active" On Your Phone

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5 min. read

Published on November 3, 2025

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Encountering the frustrating “Message Blocking Is Active” error on your phone can be a major inconvenience, preventing you from sending and receiving important messages. This issue can stem from various sources, ranging from simple settings adjustments to more complex network problems. Understanding the root cause is the first step towards regaining seamless communication.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to troubleshooting and fixing the “Message Blocking Is Active” error. We’ll explore common reasons behind this issue and offer practical solutions to get your messaging back on track, ensuring you stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues.

Why Does My Phone Say Message Blocking Is Active?

Here’s a breakdown of how to troubleshoot the “Message Blocking Is Active” error on your phone:

Check Your Block List

One of the most common reasons for this error is accidentally blocking a contact.

Open your phone’s messaging app.
Navigate to the settings menu (usually found by tapping the three dots or a gear icon).
Look for a “Blocked numbers,” “Block list,” or similar option.
Review the list and unblock any numbers you want to receive messages from.

Verify SMS Center Number

An incorrect SMS center number can prevent your phone from sending messages.

Open your phone’s dialer.
Enter *#*#4636#*#* (this code may vary depending on your phone model and carrier).
Select “Phone information” or a similar option.
Scroll down to “SMSC.”
Tap “Refresh” to retrieve the correct SMS center number from your carrier.
If the number is incorrect or blank, enter the correct SMS center number provided by your carrier and tap “Update.”

Examine Carrier Settings

Sometimes, the issue lies with your carrier’s settings.

Contact your mobile carrier’s customer support.
Explain the “Message Blocking Is Active” error you’re experiencing.
Ask them to verify that your account is properly provisioned for SMS messaging and that there are no blocks or restrictions on your line.

Restart Your Phone

A simple restart can often resolve temporary software glitches.

Press and hold the power button on your phone.
Select “Restart” from the menu.
Wait for your phone to reboot completely.

Clear Messaging App Cache and Data

Corrupted cache or data within the messaging app can cause issues.

Go to your phone’s settings.
Select “Apps” or “Applications.”
Find your messaging app in the list.
Tap “Storage.”
Tap “Clear cache” and then “Clear data.” Note: Clearing data will delete your messages, so back them up if needed.

Reset Network Settings

Resetting your network settings can resolve connectivity issues that might be interfering with messaging.

Go to your phone’s settings.
Select “General Management” or “System.”
Tap “Reset.”
Select “Reset network settings.” Note: This will reset Wi-Fi passwords and Bluetooth connections.

Update Your Phone’s Software

Outdated software can sometimes cause compatibility issues.

Go to your phone’s settings.
Select “Software update” or “System update.”
Tap “Download and install” if an update is available.

Try a Different Messaging App

If the problem persists, try using a different messaging app to see if the issue is with your current app.

Download a different SMS app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Set it as your default messaging app.
Test if you can send and receive messages.

Factory Reset (Last Resort)

As a last resort, a factory reset can resolve persistent software issues.

Back up your phone’s data, as a factory reset will erase everything.
Go to your phone’s settings.
Select “General Management” or “System.”
Tap “Reset.”
Select “Factory data reset.”
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset.

Tips for Avoiding Message Blocking Issues

Regularly check your blocked numbers list to ensure no one has been accidentally blocked.
Keep your phone’s software and messaging app updated to the latest versions.
Be mindful of the permissions you grant to messaging apps, as some may interfere with SMS functionality.
Avoid using unofficial or modded messaging apps, as they may contain bugs or security vulnerabilities.

Regaining Communication

By systematically working through these steps, you can identify and resolve the root cause of the “Message Blocking Is Active” error on your phone and restore seamless communication.

FAQ

Why am I getting “Message Blocking Is Active” when texting a specific person? This usually means you’ve blocked their number or they’ve blocked yours.

How do I unblock a number on my iPhone? Go to Settings > Phone > Blocked Contacts and unblock the number.

What is the SMS center number and why is it important? The SMS center number is a phone number that routes text messages. An incorrect number can prevent messages from being sent.

Can my carrier block my messages? Yes, your carrier can block messages if they suspect spam or policy violations.

Will clearing the cache of my messaging app delete my messages? Clearing the cache usually doesn’t delete messages, but clearing the data will. Back up your messages if needed.