How to Fix Invalid SIM Card 

I have bought a new sim card for my mobile but when I put it into my mobile it shows an error message saying “Invalid SIM card” or “SIM card not detected” on your mobile. My sim card is still on my mobile and I properly installed it but it says no sim card, I have no idea why it’s showing me this message.

If you are also facing the same kind of situation then don’t worry, I did some research and came up with a solution to fix an invalid sim card.

The SIM stands for Subscriber Identity contains a unique identification number and allows a mobile device to connect to a mobile network. When we insert and activate a sim card, our device can connect to the network and be able to make and receive calls, and text messages. But if your sim card shows an invalid Sim error message then you can’t use its services.

In this guide we teach what are the causes behind this error and how to fix it. So let’s go to the article.

What Are the Causes Of Invalid SIM Card Errors?

Before attempting to solve the problem, you must first understand what an invalid SIM card is and what are the causes behind the invalid sim card error.

When a mobile device is unable to recognize or authenticate the SIM card that has been inserted into it, then there is a message that appears on the screen that says “Invalid SIM”.

This can happen for a number of reasons, like a damaged or faulty SIM card, a problem with the device’s SIM card reader, or an issue with the mobile network or the account associated with the SIM card.

Causes For Invalid Sim Card Error:

Damaged or faulty SIM card:

If a SIM card is physically damaged or worn out then it can not be recognized by the device and cause the “Invalid SIM” message.

SIM card not properly inserted:

Make sure you put the sim card properly into your device card slot. You can not operate the sim card if it is not inserted properly. There is instruction on the device to put your sim card in case you don’t know how to insert it.

SIM card reader issue:

If the device’s SIM card reader is damaged or malfunctioning, it may not be able to read the information on the SIM card and cause the “Invalid SIM” error message.

Network Issues:

If there is no network coverage in your area then it can result in an invalid sim card issue. If your sim card won’t detect any signals then it won’t work and shows a No Sim or Invalid Sim Error.

Device compatibility:

If your Sim card is incompatible with your device, it won’t support it and shows you an Invalid Sim Card Message. Not every mobile is compatible with every type of sim card.

Outdated device software:

If your device software is outdated or running on an old software version then it may not be able to recognize newer types of SIM cards or connect to the mobile network.

How to Fix Invalid SIM card?

There are numerous solutions available for invalid SIM cards. You can select your preferred method. In most cases, you will have to try several solutions.

Given that, we’ve already listed every known solution that works, which are all very similar fixes for when your phone doesn’t recognize your USB or doesn’t read your SD card.

1. Reboot Your Device

Unlike in the past, there’s no need to smack an acting-up device to get it to work; all you might need to do is turn it off and on again.

Restarting your device is an effective way to resolve minor issues such as SIM card issues, lags, and crashes.

Rebooting has advantages. It clears RAM, the temporary storage for data of running programs, and stops apps from running.

This solution only has drawbacks if used excessively. One example is that frequent rebooting reduces device lifespan.

As a result, technology experts advise restarting a mobile phone only once a week.

To restart an Android device, simply press and hold the power button. Instead of manually shutting it down and turning it on, select “Restart.”

Press and hold the volume and/or the independent side or top button to restart an iOS device. Turn it off by dragging the slider.

Only turn on the device after the shutdown process is complete. You must press the side button once more until the Apple logo appears.

2. Re-Insert SIM Card

Removing and reinserting the SIM card could be another solution to the SIM card error.

It will work if the root cause of the invalid SIM card issue is a misalignment. Just be careful not to scratch the SIM card when removing and reinserting it. If this occurs, the problem may worsen.

Take the following steps:

To remove a SIM card from an Android or iOS device, first power off the device.

Find your SIM card tray. If necessary, open the slot or use the appropriate SIM remover tool.

Insert the SIM removal tool’s protruding end into the small hole and gently push it in. The closure will come undone on its own, or the tray will eject on its own.

The SIM card is located beneath the battery in older devices. To access the tray, simply remove the back cover and battery.

Pull out the tray and/or take out the SIM card. Adjust it precisely, then replace the tray.

After that, turn on your mobile device and check to see if your SIM card is now valid or detected.

If the solution does not work, try the methods listed below.

3. Switch to Supported Network Operator

Another reason the device cannot read the SIM card is that the network operator settings have been toggled. Ascertain that you are connected to the correct network, as supported by the device and SIM card.

Follow the steps outlined below.

• Go to the Settings menu on an Android device to check.
• Select “Connections,” then “Mobile networks.”
• Select “Network operators.”
• Choose “Search network,” then “Select manually,” and then select the appropriate network from the list.
• Open the Settings menu on an iOS device to select a network. Select “Cellular.”
• Among the options, select “Cellular Network.”
• Swipe to the left to activate the “Automatic” slider. This will disable the device’s auto-searching network function and force it to rescan for available networks at the time. Choose the appropriate network from the available options.

4. Reset Network Settings

If you reset network settings, only the Wi-Fi, cellular network, and Virtual Private Network (VPN) will be reset to default.

You will need to reconfigure these later, so make a list of your Wi-Fi, cellular network, and VPN names and passwords ahead of time.

Follow these steps to reset network settings on Android devices:

Navigate to the Settings menu and select “General Management.”

Select “Reset” and then “Reset network settings.” Your device will display a list of the features that have been affected by the reset. If you are satisfied, click “Reset Network Settings.”

If the previous instructions do not apply to your device model, there is an alternative method. On the Settings menu, select “System.” Choose “Advanced.” Select “Reset Options” and then “Reset Wi-Fi, Mobile, and Bluetooth.”

To do the same for iOS devices, follow these steps:

1. Turn off your iCloud Keychain first to avoid losing your passwords across all of your iCloud-registered devices.

2. Go to the Settings menu.

3. Tap “General,” followed by “Reset.” This will take you to a page with several reset options. If necessary, enter your passcode. Allow the device to restart.

There should be no dangers in resetting your devices’ network settings unless you fail to back up your network credentials.

5. Factory Reset

if you tried the above methods but still it shows an “Invalid Sim” message then you can perform a device factory reset.

But proceed with caution, as a factory reset will erase all information, and data on the device’s internal memory, apps, and current settings.

The resulting state is the same as when your device was brand new. make sure you create a backup of your data first and then proceed to factory reset.

Android

Go to the Settings menu

Select “General Management.” If this option is not available, select “Privacy” or “Backup.

Click “Reset” or “Factory Data Reset.”

If Factory Reset Protection is enabled, you may be prompted for your Google account password.

IOS

Go to the Settings menu

Select “General Management”

Click Reset

Select “Erase All Content and Settings.”

After that, the device will reboot.

Other methods for performing an iPhone factory reset include using button shortcuts that work on older iOS versions, using iTunes, and using a third-party app.

6. Call Customer Help Hotlines

This is your cue to seek professional assistance. You can consult the experts by contacting the customer service hotlines of your mobile device provider. The manufacturer’s website usually includes contact information.

Customer service representatives from your mobile device provider may be able to assist you with additional troubleshooting tips or referrals to the nearest service centre.

7. Replace the SIM card

If everything else fails and the invalid SIM card or no SIM error persists, it is possible that the SIM card needs to be replaced.

Check to see if the SIM card is the source of the problem. You can accomplish this by inserting a new SIM card into your mobile device. If the other SIM card works, your original SIM card is faulty.

Conclusion

In conclusion, If you receive an invalid sim message on your screen then the basic thing you can do is take out your sim card, clean it with cloth, and properly insert it into the device.

Above you can see the different reasons that may cause the Invalid Sim Card error message and take action according to it. If nothing works then don’t hesitate to take expert help and call customer support. They will assist you to remove the invalid sim card issue.

If you have any query related to the topic then let us know and drop a message in the comment box.

FAQ

Q: How can I fix an “Invalid SIM Card” error?

A: Try these quick fixes: 1) Restart your phone. 2) Remove and reinsert the SIM card. 3) Clean the SIM card and slot. If the issue persists, contact your service provider.

Q: What should I do if my phone displays “Invalid SIM Card”?

A: First, check if the SIM card is inserted correctly. If it is, try using the SIM card in another device. If it works, the problem might be with your phone. Consider contacting your phone manufacturer or service provider for further assistance.

Q: Why does my phone keep showing “Invalid SIM Card”?

A: The error could be due to a damaged SIM card, incompatible SIM card, or software issue. Troubleshoot by restarting your phone, cleaning the SIM card, or trying a different SIM card. If the problem persists, reach out to your service provider for guidance.