@Linux, what would you recommend?

Linux:

 

@MichaelNZ The reply ' STOP ' has to be free and all Prepay data only connections are standard 021 / 029 numbers anyway only Posptay connections use 64205* range and this range can not be moved to Prepay

 

That's what I thought too, but I was charged 20 cents.

The text came from 5872 and the phone number I was given was 0800 000 428. I have just tried again, and still, no answer.

Based on this and previous experience, it is obvious that a "premium text number" is a licence to take the piss. Whatever undertakings they may have made (at time of receiving the 4 digit number) are clearly not worth anything now. Them and all the other "premium text" operators.

I have had a cellphone since the days of "bricks" and analogue networks. Not once have I ever volunteraily enagaged a premium text number.

And why would the telcos like Vodafone care? They get the lions share of the scam proceeds and while they may have to refund a few complainers (like myself) along the way, it's still just too damn profitable.

The only difference between telcos here and in the Philippines is here the pretense level is higher. #firstworldproblems

I would ask for the 20 cent refund I am sure @mikehales can add this back in a few minutes and then just move on

Linux

MikeHales:

 

@MichaelNZ

 

Would recommend popping into a store, get your plan swapped to new number and SIM card, if the TXTs are still coming. Apologies for the hassle.

 

So what about if the new number they get (Which is probably recycled) also has premium texts going to it.

If a number is disconnected, surely the premium text senders are notified that the number is disconnected so they should stop sending texts to it.

Then once recycled, the number should have been disconnected for at least 3 months, so those premium texts should not come through.

cisconz:

 

So what about if the new number they get (Which is probably recycled) also has premium texts going to it.

 

If a number is disconnected, surely the premium text senders are notified that the number is disconnected so they should stop sending texts to it.

 

I agree with you.

I doubt they even care if it's disconnected or not. As long as they keep the money rolling in. It's not like they answer their phone... Casino scams are among the lowest form of spamming and there is nothing redeeming or informative about them.

If I change numbers what's that going to achieve? Cost me a 150km trip to the nearest Vodafone store (Palmerston North) all to get a new number which could be the same or worse.

The recycled number should have been 'clean' and not receiving premium txt .
Thats the Telco's job. If they cant do that then.....

Try making a complaint here
https://www.tdr.org.nz/making-a-complaint/types-of-disputes-covered

also, just to muddy the waters , since YOU didnt sign up or agree to these txt's
https://www.consumerprotection.govt.nz/consumer-law-and-your-rights/online-safety/unsolicited-electronic-messages-act

@dylanp yes that is a good idea catching up for a beer as well soon

Linux

@OP If you have tried the stop and they are still coming and/or charging you... I'd report it.

Linux:

 

@dylanp yes that is a good idea catching up for a beer as well soon

 

Linux

 

Probably is about time for a whole gz meetup surely ;)

Linux:

 

MikeHales:

 

@MichaelNZ

 

Would recommend popping into a store, get your plan swapped to new number and SIM card, if the TXTs are still coming. Apologies for the hassle.

 

 

This is not really the best advice sorry but what would I know

 

Linux

 

Yes it is. I had that issue with a 9 digit number lots of random chinese people calling. got a new 9 digit number. checked the history of the 9 digit numbers on offer in order to get one that nobody had used before or maybe one that only 1 person had used instead of 2 or 3.

I have a 9 digit number for my phone which I have had for many years.

This SIM is only used in my tablet. At this stage I think the easiest solution would be to get another service provider's SIM card and port the number across to Vodafone.

But it would have been a lot better in my mind if @MikeHales had offered to change the number without the hassle.

Even Vodafone's website says it can be done:

http://help.vodafone.co.nz/app/answers/detail/a_id/27625/

How do I get a "barring PIN"?

MichaelNZ:

Even Vodafone's website says it can be done:

Block incoming or outgoing calls on your mobile

http://help.vodafone.co.nz/app/answers/detail/a_id/27625/

How do I get a "barring PIN"?

It somewhat amused me when I loaded my new prepay sim into the car alarm, then added its number to my contacts to find that in the short space of time the car had gone and got itself a Snapchat account.

And the texts keep coming...

I have obtained a 028 Warehouse Mobile SIM and applied to port the number.