Since the dawn of GSM, mobile phones have been able to use an interactive SIM menu that relies on user input to enable or disable certain features provided by the carrier.
However, many carriers abuse this feature. For example, in Brazil, some carriers use interactive pop-ups that cover your screen to promote paid services. If you tap “OK,” the carrier starts charging you a weekly fee for a service you may not even want. Since these pop-ups cover a significant portion of the screen, it’s easy to accidentally confirm them, especially if they interrupt you while using your phone. Essentially, this tactic is a scam designed to extract more money from customers.
These pop-ups aren’t only used for commercial scams; some governments also use them for emergency alert messages. In some cases, if reports are to be believed, you won’t be able to use your phone until you acknowledge receipt of the message.
How to Disable These Messages on Android
If you’re using an iPhone, unfortunately, the only way to stop these spam messages is by calling your carrier’s customer service and specifically requesting they disable them for your number. However, many carriers refuse to do so since these messages generate revenue for them.
For Android users, though, you can disable these messages yourself. Below, we’ll explain how to do it for MediaTek-based Android phones and tablets, as MediaTek (MTK) is the most widely used chipset in the world. Qualcomm is a close competitor, while others like Unisoc, Kirin, and Exynos also exist but are less common.
Disabling SIM Pop-ups on MediaTek Phones
MediaTek phones have three system apps responsible for these messages and the SIM menu. Disabling them won’t affect your ability to make calls or send texts, but it will stop the intrusive pop-ups. The three apps you need to disable are:
SIM App Dialog
SIM Toolkit
SIM Processor
Temporary Solution:
Go to Android Settings > Apps.
Tap the three-dot menu and select Show System Apps.
Find the three apps mentioned above.
Open each one and select Force Stop.
This solution is temporary, as the apps may re-enable themselves after some time.
Permanent Solutions:
If you want a permanent solution, there are two methods: one for rooted phones and another for non-rooted phones.
For Rooted Phones:
If your phone is rooted, you can use an app like Titanium Backup to freeze the three apps permanently. This ensures they never restart and eliminates the issue completely.
For Non-Rooted Phones:
You can disable the apps using ADB (Android Debug Bridge) commands. While this doesn’t uninstall them, it disables them for your current user, effectively stopping the pop-ups. Here’s how:
Enable USB Debugging in Developer Settings on your phone.
Install MediaTek drivers on your computer.
Download and install ADB App Control on your PC (Windows or Linux).
Connect your phone to your PC and start the ADB App Control tool.
Select the three apps mentioned earlier and click Disable.
Once done, your Android device will stop receiving scam messages from your carrier. Regular calls and SMS messages will still work as usual.
By following these steps, you can finally put an end to unwanted pop-ups and avoid being tricked into paying for unnecessary services.