How To Cancel Subscriptions On MTN South Africa (2025)

In South Africa, mobile users often find themselves losing airtime or data without understanding why. One of the most common culprits? Unwanted subscriptions. Whether it’s a ringtone service, daily horoscope, or mobile game, these subscriptions—especially those from third-party WASPs (Wireless Application Service Providers)—can silently drain your balance.

If you’re an MTN South Africa customer, this guide will walk you through how to cancel these subscriptions, prevent future charges, and take back control of your mobile account.

What Are MTN Subscriptions?

MTN subscriptions refer to services that users opt into—either knowingly or unknowingly—that charge a recurring fee. These can include:

• Caller tunes and music services
• News alerts or daily tips
• Horoscopes and spiritual messages
• Mobile games or quizzes
• Adult content or dating services
• WASP services (third-party content providers)

While some users intentionally subscribe to these services, many are enrolled through misleading pop-ups, flash messages, or accidental clicks. Once subscribed, these services deduct airtime daily, weekly, or monthly—often without clear notification.

Why You Might Be Losing Airtime

If your airtime disappears mysteriously, here are a few likely reasons:

• Silent subscriptions: You may have unknowingly subscribed to a WASP service.
• Auto-renewals: Some services renew automatically unless manually canceled.
• Promotional traps: Clicking “OK” on a flash message or ad can trigger a subscription.
• Shared content links: Accessing certain links via SMS or WhatsApp may enroll you.

These subscriptions are often difficult to detect unless you actively monitor your account. Fortunately, MTN provides several tools to help you cancel and manage them.

 How to Cancel MTN Subscriptions

Here are the most effective ways to cancel subscriptions on MTN South Africa:

1.  Cancel via USSD Code

This is the fastest and most direct method.

Steps:

1. Dial *155# from your MTN line.
2. Select the option labeled “Manage Subscriptions” or “View and Cancel Subscriptions.”
3. You’ll see a list of all active services.
4. Select each service you want to cancel.
5. Confirm the cancellation.

Why it works:

• It’s instant.
• You don’t need internet access.
• You can cancel multiple services in one go.

This method is especially useful for identifying hidden WASP subscriptions that don’t appear in your SMS inbox.

2.  Use the MyMTN App

If you prefer a visual interface and more control over your account, the MyMTN app is a great option.

Steps:

1. Download the MyMTN app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
2. Log in using your MTN number.
3. Tap on “My Account” or “Subscriptions.”
4. View all active services.
5. Tap to unsubscribe from any unwanted service.

Benefits:

• Easy to navigate.
• Shows detailed info about each subscription.
• Allows you to manage your account beyond just subscriptions (e.g., data usage, airtime balance).

3. Call MTN Customer Care

If you’re unsure which services are active or suspect unauthorized charges, speaking to a customer care agent can help.

Steps:

1. Dial 135 from your MTN line.
2. Follow the voice prompts to speak to an agent.
3. Request a full audit of your account.
4. Ask the agent to cancel all active subscriptions.
5. Request confirmation via SMS.

Why this helps:

• You get human assistance.
• Agents can detect hidden or third-party subscriptions.
• You can ask for preventative measures to block future WASP services.

4. SMS Method (If Available)

Some users report success using SMS to cancel specific services.

Example:

• Send STOP to the short code that sent you the subscription message.
• You should receive a confirmation SMS.

Note: This method only works if you know the short code and the service allows SMS cancellation.

How to Prevent Future Subscriptions

Canceling is only half the battle. To protect your airtime going forward, follow these tips:

1. Block WASP Services

MTN allows users to block all WASP services from their number.

Steps:

1. Dial *155#.
2. Select “Block WASP Services.”
3. Confirm your selection.

This prevents third-party content providers from enrolling you in any future subscriptions.

2. Avoid Flash Messages

Flash messages are pop-ups that appear on your screen with options like “OK” or “Cancel.” Clicking “OK” can trigger a subscription.

Tip:

• Always press “Cancel” or exit the message.
• Never click “OK” unless you’re sure of the source.

3. Don’t Click Suspicious Links

Avoid clicking on links sent via SMS, WhatsApp, or social media unless you trust the sender. These links can redirect you to subscription traps.

4. Read the Fine Print

Before opting into any service, read the terms and conditions. Look for phrases like:

• “Daily charge”
• “Auto-renewal”
• “Third-party billing”

If you see these, proceed with caution.

How to Check Your Subscription History

Want to know what services you’ve been subscribed to in the past?

Use USSD:

• Dial *155# and select “Subscription History.”

Use MyMTN App:

• Go to “My Account” → “Subscription History.”

This helps you identify patterns and spot recurring charges.

Real-Life Example: How Airtime Disappears

Let’s say you clicked “OK” on a flash message offering a free ringtone. You’re now subscribed to a WASP service that charges R3 per day. That’s R90 per month—without your knowledge.

Multiply that by two or three services, and you could be losing hundreds of rands monthly.

Common Myths About MTN Subscriptions

Let’s bust a few myths:

Myth	Reality
“I didn’t subscribe, so I can’t be charged.”	You can be enrolled through misleading prompts.
“MTN is stealing my airtime.”	MTN facilitates billing, but third-party providers often initiate the charges.
“If I ignore it, it’ll stop.”	Most subscriptions auto-renew until canceled.
“Only data bundles use airtime.”	Subscriptions deduct airtime even if you don’t use data.

What to Do If You’re Still Being Charged

If you’ve canceled all subscriptions but still lose airtime:

1. Call MTN Customer Care and request a full audit.
2. Ask for a WASP block to prevent future subscriptions.
3. Report suspicious services to MTN or ICASA (Independent Communications Authority of South Africa).

Final Thoughts

Unwanted subscriptions are a frustrating reality for many MTN South Africa users. But with the right tools and awareness, you can cancel these services, protect your airtime, and prevent future charges. Whether you use USSD, the MyMTN app, or speak to customer care, the key is to stay proactive.

Remember: your airtime is yours. Don’t let hidden subscriptions steal it.