Mobile phone text problem

[mike11111]

I have had a PAYG mobile for nearly ten years, in which I have never experienced any problem. I use it very infrequently so PAYG suits me down to the ground. However I have recently started receiving test messages from 84025 offering me 500 texts per week for £1.50. I don't think I've even sent 50 texts in 10 years, let alone 500 per week. My problem is that these people are charging me for the privilege of receiving their spam. I have no objection to getting Spam, but I seriously object to having to pay for it! After about 6 of these messages the credit on my phone has been reduced from just under £10 to 10p, without me even having used the phone. What, if anything, can I do to stop this? If I ring my service provider (O2), might they be able to block this?

[mike11111]

"receiving test messages"

That should read text.

[TTG]

Does your phone have a blocked number list?

[mike11111]

To be honest I haven't a clue. Will investigate, if I can find someone to talk me around it.

[rojash]

Although this is about someone on the 3 network, I think you'll find it useful:
http://www.cableforum...mobile-text-scam.html

[ubasses]

http://www.wikihow.com/Block-Mobile-Phone-Spam
This may help

[mike11111]

Thanks for that. There is no number given, only a web address. I have logged on to it only to find that it is a "holding domain" for somebody or other. When I activate "click here" for further details it merely loads my "compose email page". I have not progressed any further for fear of incurring further charges. The whole thing strikes me as downright criminal.

[VHG]

Why dont you phone your provider (Orange, O2 or whatever) and tell them.

They can probably put a stop to it.

[Buenchico]

By law, any organisation using a 'short code' text number (i.e. with just 5 digits) must cease sending those messages if you text 'STOP' back to that number. I'm not guaranteeing that it will definitely work but the text will only be at your standard message rate so, for the sake of a few pence, it's got to be worth a try.

Otherwise (or as well) try a complaint to Phonepay Plus (which is the relevant regulatory body):
http://www.phonepaypl...Make-a-complaint.aspx

Chris

[mike11111]

I have been off-line for a couple of hours but thanks to all for your input. I think the most sensible step forward is to contact my provider as VHG suggests, and if they can't stop it then change providers.