Can send GSM/SMS but can't receive on MTN

 So this is a post about a weird symptom when you get a new simcard from MTN. I have also seen it on CellC.

Basically:

- internet works (TCP/IP)

- GSM call outbound works

- GSM SMS outbound works

inbound GSM does NOT work

Meaning you can't get OTP / 2FA SMS messages e.g. from Whatsapp etc.

Nuisance!

  • Ensure mobile data and signal are active (LTE/5G, not Airplane Mode).

  • Check if you can send a normal SMS to a friend. If yes, issue is inbound only.

  • Disable iMessage and FaceTime (Settings → Messages / FaceTime → Off).

  • Restart the phone after disabling those.

  • Check SMSC settings

    • Dial *#5005*7672# (note: might fail on newer phones).

  • Manually check for network mode switch

    • Settings → Mobile Data → Voice & Data → only LTE/5G may be available on MTN.

  • Try Manual Network Selection

    • Settings → Mobile Data → Network Selection → Turn off Auto and test available networks.

  • Check for call barring

    • Dial *#33# → Ensure all barring says "Disabled".

    • Should look like this:


    • To deactivate incoming SMS barring:
      #35*0000*16# → Wait for “Setting Deactivation Succeeded”.

  • Try the SIM in a different phone

    • If SMS works there, it’s a phone config issue.

  • Contact MTN support and ask them to:

    • Check if SMS reception is fully provisioned.

    • Confirm the line is fully active on SORB system (MTN backend).

    • Request clearing of any provisioning/barring blocks.


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