Can you switch off ...
 

[Closed] Can you switch off sms on Android phones

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Any tech experts in the house. I'm wondering how to turn off the ability to send and receive texts on a phone.. Not talking about blocking a specific number (which can be done by network provider)

I know you can disable the icon in the apps manager but this doesn't appear to prevent the ability to receive texts or send them from messanger.

You are probably asking why I'd want to do this, if so I'm asking on behalf of a friend who for some reason wants her young son to not be able to send texts from his phone .. Im assuming as he's been running up a sizable bill somehow


 
Posted : 01/07/2018 6:11 pm
 jruk
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If it's for a kid they'll find a way around it. Not much help, sorry.


 
Posted : 01/07/2018 6:26 pm
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Thanks nick but I saw that link already and it doesn't work. I tried it the other day and his phone did not have those options after you access the sms menu. I just checked on mine and it doesn't either


 
Posted : 01/07/2018 6:49 pm
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I tried it the other day and his phone did not have those options after you access the sms menu

Have you tried putting it into developer mode?

Go to settings, about phone, and keep tapping build number until it unlocks it. Sometimes opens up options that aren't in the standard menus (and useful stuff like don't lock the phone when plugged in for charging, i.e. when driving and have spotify running).


 
Posted : 01/07/2018 7:37 pm
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If the Android phone is rooted you can use an app like titanium backup to freeze the sms app (and any other offending applications).

I also did a quick google and if your friend is familiar with adb you can change the characteristics of the sms application without rooting the phone.

https://www.xda-developers.com/change-sms-limit-android/

Chances are the child will find a way if determined enough.


 
Posted : 01/07/2018 7:46 pm
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What child uses sms? I'm old and even all my friends are in whatsapp and messenger


 
Posted : 01/07/2018 8:00 pm
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Might be able to disable it via the operator if you call them. They may be able to block the service.

If overspend is the concern, surely just use PAYG.

If it's premium texts then those can be blocked via the operator I belive .


 
Posted : 02/07/2018 9:47 am
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Figured out a way. Used an apps locker to prevent access to the sms icon.. Also prevents sending sms through messenger by disabling the functionality in the settings menu. She's going on holiday next week apparently and was wary of large roaming bills...


 
Posted : 02/07/2018 9:04 pm
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To Europe? Roaming is the same cost as at home under EU rules now.


 
Posted : 02/07/2018 9:08 pm
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#parentingbyproxy


 
Posted : 02/07/2018 10:07 pm
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Using a Tsar Bomba to crack a walnut methinks.


 
Posted : 02/07/2018 10:18 pm
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She’s going on holiday next week apparently and was wary of large roaming bills…

Call the provider and put a limit or block on the account


 
Posted : 02/07/2018 10:29 pm