What Does Message Blocking is Active Mean? How to Fix Message Blocking is Active Error on Phone?

What does Message Blocking is Active mean? Learn the causes and the ways to fix the "Message Blocking is Active" issue which prevents a phone from sending messages to a contact.  

by Sona | Updated May 16, 2023

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What Does Message Blocking is Active Mean? 

Sending text messages is a popular choice for many people due to its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. However, there are occasions when sending a text message encounters difficulties, leading to problems. One such issue arises when you receive an error message stating that your "message blocking is active" while attempting to send a message.

This indicates that you are unable to send a text message to a specific number. When "message blocking is active," it means that your mobile carrier is unable to deliver your text messages to the intended recipient. In simple terms, any message you send will not reach the recipient if message blocking is active. Instead, you will see a default text message on your screen saying, "Free Msg: Unable to send a message - Message Blocking is active."

Reasons for Message Blocking is Active on Phone

There are several reasons why you may encounter the message "Message Blocking is active" on your phone. The most common reason for this error message is when either the sender or the recipient has added each other to their blocked contacts. However, there can be various other reasons for this issue as well.

  • Block List: Message blocking can occur if the sender or recipient has blocked the other party.
  • Short Code Issue: T-Mobile users may encounter message blocking if shortcodes are non-functional or inactive.
  • Service Outage: Message blocking can happen if there is a service outage due to network maintenance.
  • Premium Message Access: If the recipient or the carrier does not support premium text messaging, message blocking can occur.
  • Unsuitable Plan: Choosing a subscription package that does not support messaging services can also cause message blocking.
  • Unworkable SIM Card: If the SIM card is blocked, it can prevent sending messages. Contacting the service provider or buying a new SIM card can help resolve the issue.

How to Fix Message Blocking is Active Error on Phone?

To fix the "Message Blocking is Active" error on your phone, you can follow these steps:

Review Contact Lists and Unblock

Check if the recipient has blocked you or vice versa. Contact each other to confirm if calls are successful.

On Android: Open the Phone app, tap the three dots icon, go to Settings, and find "Blocked numbers" to unblock contacts.

On iOS: Open the Phone app, go to Advanced Options, and find "Blocked Numbers" to unblock contacts.

Ensure Correct Recipient's Details

Delete and re-save the contact information after unblocking to ensure accuracy.

Check Network Coverage

Ensure you have a strong network signal. Restart your phone or switch to airplane mode for a few seconds to reset the network connection.

Verify Country Code

When sending messages internationally, include the recipient's country code to ensure proper delivery.

Check Text Content and Add-ons

Avoid adding large attachments or using external apps that may interfere with messaging. Uninstall any potentially problematic apps.

Enable Premium Message Access

In settings, allow premium message access to ensure compatibility with the recipient's service.

Check Available Storage

Maintain sufficient free space on your device (at least 15-20%) to avoid messaging issues, especially on iPhones.

Confirm Message Plan

Ensure your mobile plan includes messaging services. Contact your mobile operator if necessary.

Verify Number Validity

Confirm that your phone number is active and not experiencing any porting, deregistration, or suspension issues.

Check Messaging Service Settings

Review your device's messaging service settings and adjust them if necessary.

Update Software

Keep your device's software up to date, especially for iPhone users. Install any available updates.

Message Blocking is Active Android

To resolve the issue of "Message Blocking is Active" on your Android device. First, navigate to your phone's settings and look for the "Messages" or "Messaging" option. Open the Messages app and tap on the three dots located in the top right corner of your screen. From the menu that appears, select the "Blocked" option. This will allow you to view a list of contacts that you have blocked on your device.

Alternatively, you can also check for blocked contacts through the Settings app. Open the Settings app on your Android device and navigate to your Google Account settings. Look for the option related to blocking or contacts, and you should be able to see a list of blocked contacts associated with your Google Account. By unblocking the relevant contact(s) from either the Messages app or the Google Account settings, you should be able to send messages without encountering the "Message Blocking is Active" error.

Message Blocking is Active Iphone

To resolve the issue of "Message Blocking is Active" on your iPhone, follow these steps. Open the Settings app on your iPhone and navigate to the "Messages" section. Look for the option labeled "SMS/MMS" and tap on it. Within this menu, you will find the "Blocked Contacts" option.

Review the list of contacts in the Blocked Contacts section and check if the number you are trying to text is present. If you find the number on the list, it means that you have blocked it. To unblock the contact and allow messages to be sent, simply tap on the contact and select the option to unblock. Once the contact is unblocked, you should be able to send messages without encountering the "Message Blocking is Active" error.

Free Msg: Unable to Send Message - Message Blocking is Active

If you receive the error message "Free Msg: Unable to send message - Message Blocking is active," it usually means that you have inadvertently blocked the recipient's phone number or email address. This block prevents your device from sending messages to that specific contact. This issue is commonly experienced by T-Mobile users, but it can occur on Android phones, iPhones, or any other device.

To resolve this problem, make sure to check your blocked contacts or blacklist and ensure that the recipient's contact information is not included. Verify that you have entered the correct phone number or email address for the recipient if they continue to be unable to receive your messages.

Disclaimer: The above information is for general informational purposes only. All information on the Site is provided in good faith, however we make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability or completeness of any information on the Site.

What Does Message Blocking is Active Mean - FAQs

1. What Does Message Blocking is Active Mean?

Sending text messages is a popular choice for many people due to its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. However, there are occasions when sending a text message encounters difficulties, leading to problems. 

2. What is the cause for Message Blocking is Active on Phone?

The most common reason for this error message is when either the sender or the recipient has added each other to their blocked contacts. However, there can be various other reasons for this issue as well.

3. Why am I seeing the "Message Blocking is Active" error on my phone?  

The error message can occur if you or the recipient have blocked each other's phone numbers. It can also be caused by issues such as short code problems, service outages, unsupported premium messaging, incompatible plans, or a faulty SIM card.

4. What should I do if the "Message Blocking is Active" error persists?  

If the error continues, contact your mobile carrier's customer support for further assistance. They can provide specific guidance based on your carrier and device.