sms from a Dutch number that I can't reply to

[MT13]

I sometimes receive an SMS message from a known contact with a UK mobile number that, for some reason, appears as coming from a Dutch number.  When I try and reply, the system doesn't let me.  I have contacted the UK contact to ask if they are (perhaps) using two different numbers, but they have assured me that they only have one number and are equally puzzled as to why their text message should appear to be re-routed through a different number and a Dutch one at that.  This has happened on three occasions and while in this particular instance I was able to identify the person sending the message, on the other two I am unable to do so (and hence unable to reply which I am worried gives the false impression that I'm ignoring their message!).  Has anyone else had this problem?  Thanks

[Oxonian]

Have you tried Googling the Dutch number @MT13 ? 

I have no idea what is happening here but that just might give a clue ?  

[pgn]

Just a thought, @MT13 - were you previously a Virgin Mobile customer, with a VM SIM in your handset still?

If so, drop into an O2 shop with phone, SIM and some photo id so they can swap you over to a proper O2 SIM - see if it helps?

[Bambino]

@MT13 Download WhatsApp and ask the contact you're having this issue with to do the same. Worth a try if normal methods of texting aren't working.

[MT13]

Many thanks for all your responses.  pgn:  I took your advice - as I was transfered from Virgin - and visited my local O2 shop this morning.  They kindly changed the SIM card so I'll see if that resolves the issue.  Thanks so much again to all and the all the best! 

[Bambino]

You're welcome, @MT13. Please come back and update your thread if and when the issue gets resolved. It can sometimes help others who may find themselves in the same predicament.

[Oxonian]

You welcome @MT13 and hopefully the issue will be resolved ! 😀

[Mitalee]

Hi, I have just ported from Vodafone to o2 two days ago. I have a weird issue where my friends are messaging or replying me back to my messages from UK numbers that they have been using for years but I am receiving them from unknown random numbers (new number each time).

I switched off on, took sim out, reset network but nothing is helping. Has anyone gone through this? How can I solve please. Please help 🙏🏿 

[pgn]

Are these friends who send you SMS on O2 or still on Vodafone, as you were, @Mitalee?

In your case, you have a nice new O2 SIM (I assume!), and have set your handset to use the O2-specific messaging mantras (Service Centre number, data APN, etc) to suit the type of O2 service (Contract or PAYG) as appropriate...

Give it a week, it does take time for the port info to be shared amongst all the networks, as explained by @SImonw_1963  near the end of the main body of this guide @Mitalee.

If no joy in a week or so, reach out to O2 via Social Media on any one of the platforms below:

• X (formerly known as Twitter) – DM
• Facebook – @o2uk
• Messenger – @o2uk
• Instagram – o2uk