Peter MokoenaIf you’re a Vodacom customer in South Africa, chances are you’ve encountered unexpected charges for services you didn’t knowingly sign up for. These are often WASP (Wireless Application Service Provider) subscriptions, which can include anything from daily horoscopes to mobile games, music downloads, and adult content.
Fortunately, Vodacom offers several ways to unsubscribe from these services. This guide will walk you through the most effective methods, explain what types of services you can cancel, and help you take control of your mobile spending.
Vodacom Unsubscribe Number: The Fastest Method
The most direct and reliable way to cancel WASP subscriptions is by dialing Vodacom’s dedicated unsubscribe USSD code:
Dial *135*997# from your Vodacom SIM
This USSD menu allows you to:
- View all active WASP subscriptions
- Cancel individual services
- Unsubscribe from all content services at once
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Open your phone’s dialer and enter *135*997#
Select Option 1 to view and cancel specific subscriptions
or
Select Option 2 to cancel all subscriptions
Follow the prompts to confirm your choices
You’ll receive an SMS confirming the cancellation
This method works for all types of WASP services, including:
- Premium SMS services
- Content downloads
- Subscription-based alerts
- Third-party entertainment platforms
Using the My Vodacom App
If you prefer a visual interface, the My Vodacom App is another excellent tool for managing subscriptions.
How to Unsubscribe via the App:
Download the app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store
Log in using your Vodacom number
Navigate to “Content Services” or “Subscriptions”
Review your active services
Tap “Unsubscribe” next to any unwanted service
Bonus Feature: Block Future Subscriptions
The app also allows you to block all future WASP subscriptions, preventing accidental sign-ups. This is especially useful if you’ve been burned before and want to avoid the hassle altogether.
SMS Method: Quick but Limited
Some WASP services allow you to unsubscribe by replying to the original SMS you received when the service was activated.
How It Works:
- Reply with “STOP”, “CANCEL”, or “UNSUBSCRIBE” to the sender’s number
- You may receive a confirmation message
Limitations:
- Not all services support SMS cancellation
- Some may ignore your request or require multiple attempts
- You might not remember which service sent the original message
This method is best used when you know exactly which service you want to cancel and still have the original SMS.
Vodacom Website: Self-Service Portal
Vodacom also offers a web-based portal for managing subscriptions:
Visit: Vodacom Self-Service Portal
Log in with your Vodacom number
Navigate to “Manage Services”
View and cancel active subscriptions
Optionally block future WASP services
This method is ideal for users who prefer desktop access or want to manage multiple numbers under one account.
Call Customer Care
If you’re struggling with any of the above methods, you can always contact Vodacom’s customer support:
Dial 135 from your Vodacom SIM
- Speak to a consultant
- Request a full list of active subscriptions
- Ask for immediate cancellation
- Inquire about blocking future WASP services
Customer care agents can also help if you suspect fraudulent subscriptions or need a refund for unauthorized charges.
How to Check for Active Subscriptions
Even if you don’t remember signing up for anything, it’s worth checking your account for hidden services.
Ways to Check:
- Dial
*135*997#and view active subscriptions - Use the My Vodacom App’s “Content Services” section
- Log into the Vodacom website and check “Manage Services”
- Review your monthly bill or airtime deductions
If you see recurring charges labeled as “VAS” or “Content Services,” those are likely WASP subscriptions.
How to Prevent Future Subscriptions
Unsubscribing is only half the battle. To avoid future headaches, take these preventive steps:
Block WASP Services
- Use the My Vodacom App or dial
*135*997# - Select the option to block all future subscriptions
Avoid Suspicious Links
- Don’t click on pop-up ads or “free download” offers
- Be cautious with mobile websites that ask for your number
Disable Premium SMS
- Contact Vodacom customer care to disable premium billing
- This prevents third-party services from charging you via SMS
What to Do If You’re Still Being Charged
If you’ve unsubscribed but still see charges, here’s what to do:
Take screenshots of your unsubscribe confirmation
Contact Vodacom support and request a refund
Report the WASP provider if you suspect fraud
File a complaint with ICASA (Independent Communications Authority of South Africa)
Vodacom is obligated to investigate unauthorized charges and may offer refunds if you can prove you didn’t consent to the service.
What Are WASP Services?
WASP stands for Wireless Application Service Provider. These are third-party content providers that partner with mobile networks like Vodacom to deliver paid services directly to your phone. Common WASP services include:
- Daily horoscopes or fortune readings
- Mobile games and trivia challenges
- Music and ringtone downloads
- Wallpapers and themes
- Chat services or dating platforms
- Adult content subscriptions
- News alerts or sports updates
- Wellness tips or motivational quotes
These services are typically billed daily, weekly, or monthly, and charges are deducted directly from your airtime or added to your monthly bill. The problem? Many users unknowingly subscribe through misleading ads, pop-ups, or even by simply clicking a link.
Why You Should Unsubscribe
If you’re seeing unexplained deductions from your airtime or monthly bill, it’s time to investigate. WASP services can cost anywhere from R1 to R10 per day, which adds up quickly. Unsubscribing not only saves money but also protects you from future unauthorized charges.
Final Thoughts
WASP services can be useful when intentionally subscribed to—but they’re a nuisance when activated without your knowledge. Whether it’s a daily trivia game or a ringtone download, these services can quietly drain your airtime or inflate your monthly bill.
Thankfully, Vodacom provides multiple ways to unsubscribe and block future charges. The *135*997# USSD code remains the fastest and most reliable method, but the My Vodacom App and website offer additional control and transparency.
By taking a few minutes to review your subscriptions and block unwanted services, you’ll save money, reduce frustration, and regain control over your mobile experience.