The situation when you cannot make a call due to the activated restriction function is familiar to many owners of Androiddevices. Most often, the problem is that the user sets a passcode to protect against unauthorized calls, but over time forgets this combination of numbers. At this point, the phone turns into a device that can only receive incoming calls or make emergency calls, which creates serious discomfort.
It is important to understand that call barring password is stored not in the memory of the smartphone itself, but on the side of the cellular operator. This means that standard screen unlocking methods, such as a pattern or fingerprint, are powerless here. However, there are several proven action algorithms that allow you to restore access to the call function or completely disable the restriction.
In this article we will look in detail at how to find out a forgotten code, what standard combinations are used by default and what to do if none of the methods worked. We will look at methods for different versions of the operating system and interfaces from different manufacturers, such as Samsung, Xiaomi and Huawei.
Standard factory passwords and default combinations
Before moving on to complex reset procedures, it is worth trying to enter universal codes, which are often set by default by manufacturers or telecom operators. Statistics show that in most cases, users either never changed this code or used one of the popular simple combinations.
Try sequentially entering the following options in the password request field when trying to unlock. If one of them is suitable, the system will immediately unlock the outgoing call function.
- 🔢 0000 —the most common combination used by default in many regions.
- 🔢 1234 —the second most popular standard access code.
- 🔢 1111 —often found in devices of older generations.
- 🔢 12345 —a five-digit option, relevant for some modern ones models.
If none of these combinations worked, this means that the code was manually changed earlier. In this case, continuing to try to enter may lead to temporary blocking of the function or itself SIM cards, so proceed to the following methods.
If you enter the wrong password more than 3-5 times in a row, the system may block the ability to enter for several hours. Take breaks between attempts.
Resetting restrictions via USSD commands
The most effective way to manage call barring services is to use special USSD requests. These commands are sent directly to the operator’s server, bypassing the phone settings, which allows you to bypass some software errors in the interface.
To disable all types of call restrictions (outgoing, incoming, international), a universal command is used. Open the Phone application and enter the following code in the dial:
##002#Once entered, press the call button. If the service was active, you will receive a notification that all redirects and restrictions have been successfully removed. In some cases, the system may ask for a password even when attempting to reset via USSD. If this happens, try entering the standard codes from the previous section.
There are also commands for managing specific types of locks. For example, to disable barring of all outgoing calls, use the code #33*0000#, where the last four digits are the expected password. If your password is different, the command will not work, but you will receive an error message confirming that the problem is with the access code.
Why do USSD commands not work?
The commands may not work if you do not have a network signal, if the SIM card is locked, or if your telecom operator has disabled the ability to control services through USSD codes in your tariff plan.
Changing the password through the smartphone settings
If you have access to the settings menu and the locking function is active, but you just want to change the code to a new one (or try to reset it through the interface), you can use the system menu. The path to these settings may differ depending on the version Android and the manufacturer's shell.
Usually the required section is located along the following path: go to Settings → Applications → Phone → Additional settings → Call blocking. In some interfaces, for example on Samsung, the path may look like Phone → Menu (three dots) → Settings → Call barring.
In the menu that opens, you will see a list of types of restrictions. Click on the active barring (for example, “All outgoing calls”). The system will prompt you to enter your current password. If you don't know it, this method will not help you unblock the call right now, but it is useful for checking the status of the service.
| Restriction type | Function description | Standard code |
|---|---|---|
| All outgoing | Blocking any calls from telephone | 0000 / 1234 |
| International | Blocking calls abroad | 0000 |
| Incoming in roaming | Banning calls abroad | 1234 |
| All incoming | Complete blocking of receiving calls | 0000 |
Phone settings only display the status of the service, but the actual password verification occurs on the telecom operator's server.
Contacting the cellular operator
The most reliable and guaranteed way to solve the problem is to contact your mobile operator directly. Since the password is stored on their equipment, only they have the technical capabilities to reset or change it.
Contact support via the hotline, chat in your personal account, or visit the nearest communication store. To confirm your identity as the owner of the number, you will need to provide your passport data or the code word set when concluding the contract.
- 📞 Call the operator: Call from another phone the support service number of your operator.
- 💻 Personal account: In some operator applications there is a “Services” section where you can forcibly disable the “Banning” service calls."
- 🏢 Sales office: A personal visit with a passport allows you to resolve the issue in 5-10 minutes.
After contacting, the operator will reset the password to the factory value (usually 0000 or 1234) or completely disable the blocking service. After this, you will be able to make calls without restrictions.
⚠️ Attention: If the SIM card is not issued to you, the operator may refuse to reset the password without the presence of the official owner of the number or a power of attorney.
Use of third-party applications to reset
In the store Google Play there are utilities that claim to be able to manage call settings and reset passwords. However, their effectiveness is extremely limited due to security limitations of modern versions Android.
Applications like Call Barring Reset or Network Settings Reset try to send special commands to the phone's modem. They may work on older versions of the system (up to Android 9), but on new devices access to these functions is closed to third-party software without root access.
Using such apps carries certain risks. Poor quality software can disrupt the operation of the network module or lead to incorrect display of the SIM card status. Before installing, carefully read reviews and check the access rights that the application requests.
☑️ Security when installing applications
⚠️ Attention: Avoid applications that require root access to reset call passwords. Obtaining superuser rights may void the warranty for the device.
Radical measures: Resetting the network and device settings
If none of the software methods helped, you can try resetting the network settings. This procedure will return all parameters for connecting to the mobile network and Wi-Fi to factory settings, but will not delete your personal data (photos, contacts, applications).
You can perform a reset through the menu: Settings → System → Reset settings → Reset Wi-Fi, mobile data and Bluetooth settings. After rebooting the phone, try checking the call barring status again.
As a last resort, if the problem is caused by a deep system failure, a full reset of the device to factory settings helps (Hard Reset). This procedure will completely delete all data from the internal memory of the phone, so be sure to make a backup copy of important information before starting.
To perform a full reset, you usually use a combination of buttons when the phone is turned off (for example, Volume up + Power) to enter Recovery mode, where the item is selected Wipe data/factory reset.
⚠️ Attention: Full reset does not guarantee removal of the call barring password, since the blocking is tied to the SIM card, and not to the phone memory. Use this method only if you suspect an OS software glitch.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What should I do if I completely forgot my password and the operator requires personal presence?
If the operator insists on a personal visit, and If you cannot come, try to issue a power of attorney for a representative. In some cases, identification through a video call or confirmation through a banking application (if it is linked to a number) can replace a personal visit, but this depends on the rules of a particular operator.
Is it possible to find out the call barring password through a computer?
It is impossible to directly find out the password through a computer, since it is not stored in clear text. However, you can go to the operator’s personal account from a PC and try to disable the call blocking service there, if the interface provides such an option without entering the old password.
Does changing the SIM card affect the call barring password?
Yes, the password is tied to a specific SIM card and phone number. If you insert another SIM card, the call barring settings for the new card will be missing or will have its own settings not associated with the old card.
Why does call barring remain after resetting the phone?
Because this function is controlled by the telecom operator at the network level, and not by the settings of your smartphone. Resetting the phone clears only the local memory of the device, but does not affect the service profiles on the mobile operator’s server.
How much does the service of removing call barring from the operator cost?
In most cases, consultation and password reset by the support service are free. However, re-activation of the service or special tariff options may require a fee. Check the current conditions in your operator's tariff plan.