Sending a buddy or someone you know a fake error message text is a great way to prank them – especially if you can pull it off. On this page, you’ll find several different types of popular “prank error messages” that you can copy & paste and send to friends and family. Some common examples include fake “out of service” messages or pretend notifications about blocked numbers.
Use these messages to mimic real-life error notifications from phone carriers, systems, or apps and see if you can get the person to actually believe you. People send these fake messages to confuse or surprise others for fun and it’s a harmless (but hilarious) joke if you can pull it off successfully.
Scroll through the list below and copy and paste whichever you want to try. Some are better if you slightly modify them to suit your specific scenario but all can be sent as-is if that’s what you prefer. So fire them up into a text message or social media post and watch the confusion (and maybe a little panic) ensue.
Fake Error Message Texts You Can Copy-Paste
System Errors
- Blue Screen of Death (BSOD): A STOP: 0x0000007B INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE error has occurred.
- Kernel Panic: The system has panicked due to a critical error. Please restart your computer.
- System Failure: A fatal exception has occurred at 0x0045F2A1. The current application will be terminated.
Application Errors
- Unexpected Error: An unexpected error has occurred. The program will now close.
- File Not Found: The file you are trying to access cannot be found. Please check the file name and try again.
- Out of Memory: The system has run out of memory. Please close some programs and try again.
- Runtime Error: A runtime error has occurred. Do you wish to debug?
- Application Crash: The application has unexpectedly quit. Would you like to send a report to Apple?
Internet Errors
- 404 Not Found: The requested URL was not found on this server.
- 500 Internal Server Error: The server encountered an internal error and was unable to complete your request.
- Connection Timeout: The connection to the server timed out. Please check your internet connection and try again.
Fake Virus Alerts
- Warning! Your computer is infected with a virus! Click here to download the latest antivirus software.
- Critical Error! Your system is at risk! Call this number immediately for technical support.
- Security Alert! Your personal information has been compromised! Click here to change your password and protect your account.
Verizon Disconnected Text Message Examples:
- Message to failed: Network problem. Error 97: SMS origination denied.
- We’re sorry you have reached a number that has been disconnected or is no longer in service. If you feel this is in error, please check the number dialed, and please try again.
AT&T Disconnected Text Message Examples:
- Message to failed: Network problem. Error 97: SMS origination denied.
- ERROR/% AT&T <DATA MESSAGE: /*The phone you are trying to contact has exceeded its texting monthly limits. ID:283739196 – Each additional message to recipient will charge carrier $0.50/SMS^
- The wireless number you are trying to call is not available please try again later.
- The AT&T subscriber is not available at this time or the person you are attempting to reach has changed or disconnected the number you dialed and it is no longer in service. If you feel this message is an error, check the number once again or contact AT&T for further assistance. Error Code 0 1 1 8 .
- The AT&T subscriber you are trying to reach is no longer in service
T-Mobile Disconnected Text Message Examples:
- Msg 2110 – the customer you are trying to text is out of service.
- Msg 2114 – Message sent using an invalid number of digits. Please resend using a 10-digit number or valid short code.
General Fake Error Message Texts:
- SMS: SERVICE ERROR 305: MESSAGE DELIVERY FAILED. FURTHER MESSAGES WILL BE CHARGED TO YOUR ACCOUNT.
- Thank you for texting the Texas Attorney General’s fraudulent SMS detection hotline. Please reply with your address for service of process in Texas. Failure to comply is punishable by a fine not to exceed $250,000.
Disclaimer: Remember, these are just for fun, so use them responsibly! Making a fake error message is simple. You can find templates online or make your own by copying the style of real error texts above.
Key Takeaways
- Fake error messages are harmless pranks that mimic real notifications
- Templates for fake error texts are easily found online
- Use caution when sending fake messages to avoid causing real concern
Understanding Fake Error Messages
Fake error messages are made-up alerts that look real. They can trick people into thinking something is wrong with their device or account.
Types of Fake Error Messages
Fake error messages come in many forms. Some copy real computer errors like “Error 404” or “System Failure.” Others mimic text message problems. For example:
“SMS ERROR: The number you are trying to reach is no longer in service.”
“Message delivery failed. Further texts will be charged to your account.”
These fake messages can look very real. They often use the same fonts and colors as real errors. Some even add official-looking logos or symbols.
Potential Uses and Motivations
People create fake error messages for different reasons. Some use them as pranks to confuse friends. A person might send a fake “blocked” message to avoid unwanted texts.
Others have bad intentions. Scammers use fake errors to:
- Scare people into thinking their device is broken
- Trick users into clicking harmful links
- Get personal info by posing as tech support
Websites sometimes use fake errors to stop people from leaving. This can make users stay longer or sign up for services.
Creating and Disseminating Fake Error Messages
Fake error messages can be crafted and shared using various methods. These messages often mimic real system errors to trick recipients.
Template Crafting and Customization
To create fake error messages, users start with basic templates. These can be changed to fit different situations. Common templates include:
- “SMS ERROR: Number not in service”
- “Message delivery failed”
- “Account blocked”
Users can add company logos or icons to make messages look more real. Changing fonts and colors helps match the style of real error messages.
Some people make one-letter texts that look like loading symbols. These can fool others into thinking a message is still sending.
Methods of Distribution
Fake error messages can be sent in several ways:
- Copy and paste into text messages
- Share on social media platforms
- Use automated response systems
For pranks, people often send repeated messages to flood someone’s phone. This can make the fake error seem more believable.
Some websites offer buttons to easily copy fake error texts. This makes it quick to send prank messages to friends.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Sending fake error messages can cause problems. It might be against the law in some places. People should think about these issues:
- It can be seen as harassment
- It might break terms of service on messaging apps
- It could cause real worry or confusion
Using fake errors for scams is illegal. Even for pranks, it’s important to consider how the recipient will feel. Overuse can damage trust and relationships.
People should be careful when creating or sharing fake error messages. It’s best to only use them with friends who will understand the joke.
Risks and Precautions
Fake error messages can lead to serious problems. It’s important to know how to spot them and stay safe.
Distinguishing Between Real and Fake Messages
Real error messages often come from your device’s system. They have a standard look and feel. Fake ones may have odd fonts, colors, or logos. Check the sender’s info carefully. Real messages usually come from trusted sources.
Look for spelling mistakes or weird grammar. These are red flags. Real errors are usually clear and to the point. If a message asks for personal info or money, be very careful. Legit errors don’t do this.
If you’re not sure, don’t click any links. Instead, go directly to the company’s website or app. You can also search online for the exact error text to see if others have gotten it.
Managing Unintended Consequences
Fake error texts can cause stress and worry. Some people might panic and make hasty choices. This is what scammers want.
If you get a scary message, take a deep breath. Don’t rush to act. Talk to a trusted friend or family member about it. They can help you think clearly.
Be aware that sending fake errors, even as a joke, can backfire. Friends might get upset or scared. In some cases, it could even be against the law. Think twice before sending prank messages.
Best Practices for Safety and Security
Keep your devices updated. New updates often fix security holes that scammers use. Use strong passwords and change them often. Don’t use the same password for everything.
Be careful about giving out your phone number or email. The less info scammers have, the harder it is for them to trick you.
Learn about common scams. Knowing their tricks helps you spot them. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is. It’s okay to ignore messages or hang up on calls that seem fishy. Your safety is more important than being polite.
