Invalid SIM card - you can do that

You often get the message "SIM card invalid" when you want to use a new cell phone from your mobile phone provider with a SIM card from another provider. This error message is often related to a SIM lock. You must first remove this in order to use the card.

Remove SIM lock using the activation code

Contract phones purchased before 2013 often have a SIM lock. Depending on how long your term is, you can unlock it.

• First open the website of your contractual partner. We have linked the pages for the SIM lock activation of the three major well-known providers Telekom, Vodafone and o2 for you.
• At the end of the 24-month period, you can have the Sim-Lock removed free of charge. Significant fees are often charged to remove the lock earlier. For example, Telekom charges 99.50 euros for this.
• You must have your mobile phone's IMEI number ready for unlocking. Depending on the cell phone model, you can find this under the settings menu or within the battery casing of your cell phone. Enter this on your provider's website and then receive your activation code.
• Then enter the activation code in your mobile phone. This is usually done using the selection buttons on the call function on your mobile phone. However, this can vary, which is why you should read the description for the activation code or contact your contract partner.