How To: Fix a voicemail that goes directly to scam/ads/robocaller messages *86

I got a call form an unrecognized number, so I let it go to voicemail. I later tried to delete the message but the voicemail kept calling the scammer/robocall/ads phone number as opposed to accessing my voicemail. I kept getting a answering machine with a prompt to “connect with local singles”. As much as I am interested in connecting with local singles, I am more interested in deleting this message and access my voicemail.

Problem:

  • Voicemail goes directly to scammer/robocall/ads interactive service

Solution

  • Android:
    • Open the phone app and click on the three horizontal lines icon> Settings > Calls > Voicemail >Setup>Voicemail number. A window pops up that lets you enter your voicemail number – the default is *86, change this to your cell phone number.

Sources:

  • https://help.ting.com/hc/en-us/community/posts/115006541287-Ads-when-trying-to-access-voice-mail
  • https://www.reddit.com/r/ting/comments/6c6r89/ads_when_trying_to_access_voicemail/
  • https://forums.androidcentral.com/htc-droid-eris/2653-how-change-default-voicemail-86-youmail.html