One-time Passwords (OTP) are essential for securing online accounts, confirming transactions, and verifying identities. But what happens when you’re not receiving an OTP code via SMS? It can be frustrating and raise concerns about account access and security.
If you're asking, "how to get OTP code to enter SMS", you're not alone. Many users face delays or complete failures in receiving OTPs. In this guide, explore the most common reasons why you're not receiving OTP code, and provide actionable tips to help you get it quickly and securely.
Common Reasons You're Not Getting OTP Codes via SMS
Before we look at how to get your OTP code via SMS, it's important to understand what might be causing the problem.
1. Weak or Unstable Network Signal
A poor mobile signal is one of the most common reasons SMS messages fail to arrive. If you're in an area with low reception or your mobile network is experiencing outages, the delivery of OTP messages can be delayed or failed altogether.
2. Incorrect Phone Number Entry
Enter the wrong phone number? That’s an easy way to miss an OTP. Always double-check that the number you entered matches the one registered to your account or service.
3. Full Storage or SMS Inbox
Phones with full storage may reject new incoming messages, including OTPs. If your SMS inbox or device storage is nearly full, free up space and try again.
4. Damaged or Inactive SIM Card
A SIM card that is inactive, blocked, or damaged may be unable to receive any SMS, including OTPs. Check if your SIM is working properly and connected to a network.
5. Blocked or Filtered Numbers
Some devices automatically block unknown numbers or filter suspected spam messages. OTP codes usually come from unfamiliar numbers, so make sure no blocking features are stopping them from reaching your inbox.
How to Get OTP Code to Enter SMS: 5 Solutions That Work
Now that you know why you might not be getting OTP codes, here are some effective fixes to try:
1. Clear Cache of Your Messaging App
Over time, cache files in your messaging app can cause glitches. Clearing the cache often resolves issues with SMS reception.
How to do it:
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Go to Settings > Apps > Messages > Storage > Clear Cache.
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Restart your device and try requesting the OTP again.
This helps reset the app and may allow new messages, including OTPs, to come through.
2. Unblock Unknown or Spam Numbers
If your phone blocks messages from unrecognized numbers, it could be stopping OTPs from reaching you.
How to check:
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Open your Messages app > Settings > Spam Filter / Blocked Numbers.
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Turn off filtering temporarily to see if the OTP arrives.
3. Reset Network Settings
Sometimes, resetting your mobile network settings can restore proper connectivity and SMS functions.
Steps to reset network settings:
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Go to Settings > System > Reset > Network Settings > Reset Settings.
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After resetting, request OTP again.
4. Contact Your Mobile Carrier
Still not receiving OTPs? If none of the above works, it could be a carrier-related issue. Contact your service provider. They can confirm if there are any issues with your SIM card, account, or network coverage.
They may also help you:
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Reactivate your SIM
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Unblock message services
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Investigate delivery issues
5. Use Alternative OTP Delivery Methods
Many platforms now offer alternative ways to receive OTPs, such as:
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Email-based verification codes
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Authenticator apps (e.g., Google Authenticator)
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Push notifications
If you're unable to receive SMS OTP, switching to one of these options can help you proceed without delays.
Not receiving OTP code can be more than just annoying, but it can disrupt important transactions and compromise account access. Whether it's due to network issues, incorrect inputs, or blocked messages, understanding how to get OTP code to enter SMS is key to staying connected and secure.
By applying the fixes outlined above, you can resolve most OTP-related issues quickly. And for businesses looking to improve user verification, adopting smarter solutions like Telco Verify by Telkomsel Enterprise ensures smoother, safer experiences for all.
Telco Verify eliminates the need for manual OTP entry by using mobile network verification. It’s fast, secure, and seamless, ideal for businesses aiming to improve the user experience while enhancing security.
With Telco Verify, your users don’t have to wait for an SMS or worry about missing codes. Instead, identity verification happens automatically in the background, offering a smoother, safer process.
Want a smarter way to authenticate users? Say goodbye to missed OTPs and slow verifications. Contact us today to learn how Telco Verify can transform your authentication process.
