Fix Error 98 SMS Termination Denied On Android [10 Ways]

Texting is common, easy, and almost everyone does it! Whether it is friends or family, if you own a phone then you must be used to texting. But when you keep seeing Error 98 SMS Termination Denied when sending text on Android phone, it can get annoying.

This error occurs due to many reasons, such as incorrect SIM insertions or issues with your service provider. To know precisely what causes Error 98 SMS Termination Denied on Android and find out how to solve it, read on below.

Why Am I Getting Error 98 SMS Termination Denied Error on Android?

If you are repeatedly getting SMS Error code 98, it can be due to one of the following reasons. 

• The service provider has temporarily ceased service due to maintenance or other issues. 
• A glitch in your phone makes it unable to detect the SIM card.
• The phone model is outdated, and the parent company doesn’t support it anymore.
• A system update is pending, and the older version doesn’t work well.
• The SIM isn’t properly inserted in the SIM tray.
• The receiver’s number is incorrect or discontinued.

Also Read: Fix SIM Not Provisioned Error On Android

How To Solve Error 98 SMS Termination Denied?

Identifying the cause is essential to solve the Error 98 issue effectively in your Android phone. Now that you have analyzed the possible causes, you can try some of these troubleshooting methods to solve the problem.

1: Restart Your Phone

Most of the time, this issue can be solved by simply rebooting your phone. This solution works well if the error is caused due to a glitch or bug in the phone’s operating system.

Press and hold the Power button of your device, and tap on the Restart option. Once your phone restarts, check if the issue exists by sending an SMS again. 

2: Check for Android Updates

Older versions of Android often lack certain features that can cause Error code 98 when trying to send a text on Android. Many users found that updating to the latest version of Android solves this issue by itself.

To check if your device has any pending updates, follow these steps:

• Open the Settings app by dragging down the notification bar.
• Tap on the About phone and go to the System Update.

• Your device will scan for available updates. This takes a few minutes. If an update is available, it gives you an option to download it.
• After installing the update, the device must automatically restart. If not, restart your phone and check if the error still exists. 

3: Reinsert The SIM Card

Improper SIM insertion can also be the cause of Error 98. When the SIM doesn’t correctly fit in the SIM tray, the phone can’t connect and detect the SIM. To avoid this, it is best to reinsert the SIM card through the below steps. 

• Switch off the phone and remove the SIM card from the SIM tray.
• Clean the SIM tray with a clean dry cloth. Don’t use any liquid as it may damage the phone’s internal parts. 
• After cleaning, reinsert the SIM card and switch on the phone. Check if the issue persists.

4: Check Current Balance

Error 98 can also occur if your phone doesn’t have adequate balance to send the text message. Service providers usually charge a fee for text message services. Checking your credit and current plan can solve this issue if it is due to inadequate credit. 

To check your current balance:

• Dial the USSD code of the respective service provider. Each provider has a unique code that gives the account details.
• Once the menu pops up, select current account balance or tariff plan to know more details.
• If your plan has expired or if you don’t have enough credit, recharge your number and check if you continue to get error 98.

5: Check The Receiver’s Number

Sometimes Error 98 SMS Termination Denied on Android can occur due to an issue on the receiver’s end. Make sure that the receiving number actually exists.

If you attempt to send a text message to a landline number, then you will see the Error 98 message. You can use a phone number validator app to verify whether the number belongs to a mobile phone or a landline.

This problem also occurs if the receiver’s number has been discontinued. This can be due to numerous reasons like non-payment of bills or a number change.

6: Restrict The Length Of The Message

Though most carrier networks support splitting long text messages, some might not do so. If your text message exceeds the character limit and your service provider does not split it into multiple texts, then you will receive an error-98 text. 

To counter this problem, shorten your text message so that it is within the 160 character limit. Additionally, check with your service provider to see if they divide long messages into multiple shorter ones.

7: Scan Your Phone For Corrupt Files

Corrupt files and malware can also be a reason for Android Text Message Error Code 98. If you have recently installed a third-party app or connected your phone to an unknown device, then your files might be corrupted. To detect such files:

• Install a verified antivirus app for Android through Playstore. 
• Using the app, scan your phone for any suspicious files.
• Remove these files from your device and check if the error message still appears.

8: Delete Messages and Call Log

Sometimes, Error 98 shows up if the message and call memory of your phone is full. Most phones retain that data unless it is manually deleted. To clear your message and call log:

• Open the Message app and click on the three dots in the top right corner. 
• In the drop-down menu, select delete all messages to clear your message history.
• Similarly, go to Call logs, click on the three dots, and select clear call log to delete your calling history. 

Also Read: Recover Deleted Text Messages On Android

9: Clear Cache Of Messaging App

Similar to message history, the app also stores cache. Caches are temporary files that store data and help an app to load faster. When cache fails to load the correct information, your messaging app can display Error 98. To clear cache:

• Go to Settings by dragging down the notification bar. Select the Apps menu.

• In the Apps menu, search and select your Message app.
• Go to the Storage.
• The menu displays two options: Clear data and Clear cache. Select both to delete all cache from the messaging app.

• Check if the issue persists.

10: Contact Service Provider to Fix Error 98 SMS Termination Denied on Android

The above solutions should fix Error 98 SMS Termination Denied on Android. If you have tried all the solutions and the problem still persists, contact your service provider or customer care.

They can identify the root cause of this problem and suggest solutions accordingly. Additionally, they will also inform you if the Error 98 message is due to downtime or maintenance issues.

Conclusion

Error 98 SMS termination Denied is a fairly common error while sending text messages through Android phones. Most of the time, it is due to a minor issue that can be easily addressed through one of the ten solutions discussed above.

It will ensure that any problem with your phone is solved. If the error still appears, it is best to wait for a while and try again, as it might be due to a service outage by the carrier.