Stop unwanted SMS subscriptions draining your airtime. Learn how to block, unsubscribe, and protect your GSM line from premium rate scams.
If you have ever picked up your phone and found your airtime
mysteriously reduced — without making a call, sending a text, or buying data —
you’re not alone.
Many GSM phone users in Nigeria and across the world face the
same frustrating problem: unwanted SMS subscriptions that sign you up
for premium services without clear consent, then quietly deduct money from your
balance on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis.
These services are often called Premium Rate Services
(PRS) or Value Added Services (VAS). They can be triggered by:
- Clicking
deceptive ads while browsing.
- Replying
to or ignoring certain SMS prompts.
- Automatic
opt-ins after downloading apps.
- Unscrupulous
third-party providers abusing your phone number.
The good news is that you can stop them — permanently.
In this guide, we’ll break down step-by-step how to cancel current
subscriptions, block new ones, and protect your GSM line from future airtime
theft.
1. Identify the Culprit
The first step is to find the short code or service
name behind the deductions. This is usually a 4–6 digit number in the SMS you
receive, such as:
“You have been subscribed to XYZ Game @ ₦50/day. To
unsubscribe, text STOP to 3030.”
Go through your recent SMS messages and balance
notifications. Look for:
- Service
name
- Short
code number
- Deduction
amount and frequency
Keeping this information will help you unsubscribe and, if
necessary, file a complaint later.
2. Unsubscribe Directly via SMS
Most premium service providers are required by regulators to
offer a way to cancel. The standard method is:
- Send STOP
to the service short code (e.g., STOP to 3030).
- If
that doesn’t work, send STOP ALL to the same code — some providers
group multiple services under one code.
Wait for a confirmation message that your subscription has
been cancelled. If no confirmation comes, move to step 3.
3. Use Your Mobile Operator’s VAS Deactivation Code
In Nigeria, the major GSM operators provide USSD menus to
help you manage and cancel all active premium services:
- MTN Nigeria: Dial *447#
or *141*5# → Select “Manage Subscriptions” → “Cancel All.”
- Airtel
Nigeria: Dial *362#
or *902# → Select “Stop Service.”
- Glo
Nigeria: Dial *127*0#
or call 121 to speak with customer care.
- 9mobile
Nigeria: Dial *200#
→ Select “VAS” → “Deactivate All.”
After deactivation, it’s a good idea to ask the operator to block
all future VAS activations unless you explicitly request them.
4. Activate Do Not Disturb (DND) Service
Nigeria’s telecom regulator, the Nigerian Communications
Commission (NCC), introduced a DND service to stop unsolicited marketing
messages and reduce accidental subscriptions.
To activate full DND mode in Nigeria:
- Text STOP
to 2442 (this is free).
- You’ll
receive a confirmation message once the block is active.
If you’re outside Nigeria, check your country’s telecom
regulator website for equivalent DND codes or “premium service barring”
options.
5. Block WAP Billing & Use Security Tools
Some unwanted subscriptions come through WAP billing,
where clicking on a mobile ad charges you directly via your phone bill. To
prevent this:
- Ask
your mobile network to disable WAP billing.
- Use a
browser with ad-blocking features.
- Install
a mobile security app with SMS and spam blocking capabilities.
6. Keep Proof & Escalate if Necessary
If deductions continue after following all steps above:
- Keep
screenshots of all SMS messages, USSD confirmations, and deduction
records.
- Contact
your mobile operator and insist on escalation to their fraud or billing
team.
- In
Nigeria, you can file a complaint with the NCC through their
consumer portal or by calling 622.
In many cases, if you provide solid proof, you may be
entitled to a refund.
7. How to Avoid Future Problems
- Never
click random pop-ups promising “You’ve won!” or “Free airtime.”
- Read
SMS prompts carefully before replying with “YES” or similar keywords.
- Review
your subscriptions regularly via your operator’s USSD code.
- Educate
family members,
especially children, about the risks of clicking suspicious ads or links.
Final Thoughts
Unwanted SMS subscriptions are not just a nuisance — they’re
a form of unauthorized billing that can drain your airtime without your
consent. By taking proactive steps like activating DND, cancelling all existing
VAS, and blocking WAP billing, you can protect your mobile wallet and enjoy
your GSM service without fear of surprise deductions.
Disclaimer:
