What happens when you dial *35 * 0000 * 16?

What Happens When You Dial \*35\*0000\*16\#?

If you've ever stumbled upon a string of codes like *35*0000*16# and wondered what it does, you're not alone. This specific code is a hidden network command used on mobile devices—particularly on GSM networks—and it’s not something your average user should dial without understanding the consequences.

Here’s the deal: entering this code activates a feature that blocks all incoming SMS to your phone. That means no text messages from friends, banks, two-factor authentication services, or even promotional alerts will reach your device. It’s essentially a silent filter applied directly at the network level.

This function is part of a broader set of Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) commands, commonly used to interact with your carrier's services. Similar codes exist for call forwarding, call waiting, or blocking outgoing calls. But unlike toggling airplane mode or adjusting settings in your phone’s menu, these codes make changes at the carrier level, which can sometimes be harder to reverse if you don’t know how.

Now, why would anyone want to block all SMS? In rare cases, it might be used temporarily to stop spam or during security troubleshooting. However, the risk far outweighs the benefit for most users. Missing critical messages—like password resets or time-sensitive alerts—can cause more problems than it solves.

Good news: the effect isn’t permanent. You can reverse it by entering a deactivation code, usually something like #35# or *35*#, depending on your carrier. Still, unless you’re certain about what you're doing, it’s best to avoid punching random codes into your phone.

In short: that string of stars and numbers isn’t a secret hack or a quick fix—it’s a powerful setting that can silently disconnect you from an essential communication channel. Use it wisely, if at all.