200+ Epic “Text Message Prank” Ideas You Can Try

Everyone loves a good laugh, and what better way to brighten someone’s day than with a harmless text message prank? In today’s digital age, where texting is a primary form of communication, pranking through text messages has become an amusing and popular way to share some laughs with friends. In this article, we’ll dive into some creative text message prank ideas that will keep your friends laughing without crossing any lines. Let’s have some fun!

200+ “Text Message Prank” Ideas

Confusing Responses

1. Reply to their text with a completely unrelated statement.
2. Repeat their message back to them without adding anything new.
3. Answer their questions with Yes, but in a way that doesn’t make sense.
4. Respond with random words that don’t fit the conversation.
5. Send a string of emojis that are unrelated to the topic.
6. Respond with Why? every time they send a message.
7. Only reply with one word, then ignore any follow-up questions.
8. Text them as if you’ve forgotten what the original conversation was about.
9. Continuously ask them What do you mean? no matter what they say.
10. Reply to their message with something like, I knew you’d say that, when they haven’t even responded yet.

Misdirection Pranks

1. Pretend that something urgent is happening, but then reveal it’s just a silly event (e.g., The sky is falling… just kidding, it’s just raining).
2. Text a cryptic message, We need to talk. It’s serious, and leave them waiting for a long time.
3. Convince them you’ve made a major decision about something important (like moving to another country) and then reveal it’s a joke.
4. Text a fake story about something dramatic, like a lost pet, then reveal it was just a misunderstanding.
5. Send a message with a change of plans for an event you both are attending, only to confirm later it’s not true.
6. Tell them that you’re about to reveal something shocking, but leave them hanging with a wait for it.
7. Pretend you’ve messed up their plans, then apologize and say it was a mistake.
8. Convince them that a mutual friend has done something outrageous, only to reveal it was completely made-up.
9. Text them about an event that never existed, and when they ask for details, say It’s in your calendar, check!
10. Send a message saying you’ve been hacked, then tell them it’s actually just your bad autocorrect.

Texting as Someone Else

1. Pretend to be their boss, asking for something ridiculous or absurd.
2. Act like you’re a celebrity texting them for advice or an autograph.
3. Text them as if you’re an old friend they haven’t heard from in years.
4. Pose as a family member with an odd request, like asking for a bizarre recipe.
5. Pretend to be a telemarketer selling them a weird, fictional product.
6. Send a message pretending to be an ex and saying you miss them, but in a humorous way.
7. Impersonate a neighbor and ask about their plans to do something ridiculous.
8. Pretend to be a customer service representative and tell them their account has been locked for no reason.
9. Text them as if you’re someone from their past, recalling fake memories.
10. Send a message pretending to be someone they know but claim you’ve completely forgotten your relationship.

Obvious Typos and Auto-correct

1. Type I’m going to the pizza prout instead of pizza spot.
2. Text I just bought a dog! instead of bought.
3. Write I’ll be over in a jiffy, just need to pick up some non-stick wads instead of non-stick pads.
4. Send, Let’s meat for lunch, instead of meet.
5. Auto-correct dinner to dinnersaurus and ask if they want to go out.
6. Write I can’t hear you over the internet instead of the interview.
7. Type I need to go to the florest, instead of forest.
8. Change Where are you? to Who are you? and act confused when they reply.
9. Auto-correct rain to reign and text The reign is here.
10. Text I just finished making spaghet instead of spaghetti.

Fake Compliments

1. Your socks are so unique, they really tie the room together!
2. Wow, your handwriting is like a piece of modern art!
3. I’ve never seen someone so talented at picking out napkins.
4. You’re the best at sending texts. Like, truly an expert!
5. Your hair looks so perfect today, I can’t even imagine the effort!
6. You’re the most incredible person at holding a cup of coffee. It’s magical!
7. You have the best taste in choosing which way to walk down the street.
8. Your ability to choose which TV show to watch is unparalleled!
9. You’re a genius for knowing how to use a spoon so elegantly.
10. Honestly, your ability to breathe is just next-level impressive!

Annoying Text Chains

1. Keep replying to every message they send with just Okay.
2. Send them a new random question after every reply, like What’s your favorite vegetable? followed by Why do you love it?
3. Send an endless series of texts starting with Hey, can I ask you something? but never ask anything.
4. Send Hi, then follow up immediately with How are you? and never give them a chance to answer.
5. Text them Just checking in! and then immediately follow up with Just wanted to see if you’re still there!
6. Continuously text You there? every minute until they respond.
7. Start sending random facts every 5 minutes, like Did you know elephants can’t jump?
8. Send a series of emojis, each more confusing than the last.
9. Text a random quote like Life is like a box of crayons every hour.
10. Text them Are you awake? over and over until they finally answer.

Implying You Know Secrets

1. I know what you did last weekend, and trust me, it was impressive.
2. I saw you at the grocery store yesterday… You really like pickles, huh?
3. Don’t worry, your secret is safe with me… for now.
4. I’ve been hearing rumors about you, but I’m sure you have a good explanation.
5. I can’t believe you did that last week… don’t worry, I won’t tell anyone.
6. You thought you were alone at the coffee shop, didn’t you? I saw it all.
7. I know you’ve been sneaking cookies before dinner… I’ve seen it!
8. I heard you’ve been playing in a secret band. You should tell me more about it!
9. You think nobody knows, but I have a feeling I know everything.
10. Don’t worry, I know you’re planning something big this weekend… I can’t wait!

Prank Surveys or Polls

1. Quick survey: What’s your favorite type of cloud? A) Fluffy, B) Cumulus, C) Mystery clouds?
2. Which is the better pet: A) A flying cat, B) A singing dog, C) A hamster that can juggle?
3. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you enjoy eating breakfast for dinner?
4. Poll: Would you rather fight one horse-sized duck or 100 duck-sized horses?
5. Important survey: How many times a day do you think about pizza?
6. Quick poll: Is it ever okay to wear socks with sandals? A) Yes, always B) Only if you’re a grandparent C) Never!
7. Choose one: A) Banana flavored toothpaste, B) Toothpaste flavored bananas, C) No toothpaste, just bananas!
8. Important: Should we start a petition to bring back the dinosaurs? A) Yes, absolutely B) Only the T. rex C) Nope
9. Serious question: Do you believe in aliens? A) Absolutely B) Maybe C) Definitely not
10. Quick survey: If you could only use one emoji for the rest of your life, which one would you choose?

Pretending to Forget Something Important

1. Hey, I just realized I forgot your birthday… when is it again?
2. Wait, was I supposed to meet you today? I just remembered but don’t want to seem rude.
3. Did we have plans today? I totally forgot!
4. Oops, did you already leave for the appointment I completely forgot about?
5. Wait a minute, are you still mad at me about… what was it again? I totally forgot!
6. So sorry, I was supposed to call you about the big news. What was it again?
7. Did I already tell you that I got you a gift? I forgot to give it to you!
8. Hey, wasn’t I supposed to remind you of something important today? What was it?
9. Wait, didn’t I agree to something super important? What did we talk about?
10. Did I forget our plans again? I can’t remember… what were we doing?

Annoying Repetition

1. Text Hey repeatedly without explaining.
2. Keep sending Why? after everything they say.
3. Respond to every message with, No, really?
4. Repeatedly text, Do you understand? after each response they give.
5. Keep sending Are you there? every 10 minutes.
6. Text the same question over and over like, What’s your favorite movie?
7. Reply with Okay after every single message, never adding anything else.
8. Repeat their last sentence over and over until they start noticing.
9. Keep texting them the same greeting: Good morning! at random times throughout the day.
10. Keep sending I’m waiting for your response… after each message.

Fake Personal Drama

1. You won’t believe what happened to me today. I can’t even tell you… but I will… later.
2. I just had the craziest thing happen with someone you know… I’m still processing it.
3. I need to talk to you about something serious. It’s about our friend, but I can’t say more yet.
4. Something happened last night, and it’s really going to shake up everything between us… I’ll explain soon.
5. I think I accidentally broke something important, but I don’t know how to fix it.
6. I really need to vent, but it’s about something too wild to explain right now.
7. You won’t believe what happened at work today! I need you to help me decide what to do!
8. I’ve just been dealing with something huge, and I don’t know how to fix it yet…
9. So, about that thing we talked about? It got really complicated, and I need to tell you everything.
10. There’s been some major drama between me and [name], and it’s all my fault!

Mismatched Emojis

1. Send a series of random emojis that don’t fit the context, like a 🦄 followed by 🍕 and then 🧩.
2. Reply with a completely out-of-place emoji, like a 💀 when they talk about something normal.
3. Text I’m feeling great! 🐶🍕🎩🎈 when you’re talking about your day at work.
4. Use emojis that make no sense, like sending 🧀🌞🥑 in response to a normal text.
5. Keep replying with a random assortment of emojis that don’t match the conversation.
6. Use only emojis to reply to a long message, such as 🌸💃🌵🍎.
7. Reply with emojis that imply you’re saying something but don’t relate to the conversation, like 🦸‍♂️🐉🛸.
8. Text them a random emoji each time, such as 💼 after How’s your weekend?
9. Send only 🦄🤖🦋 as a response when talking about your plans.
10. Use emojis out of context, like 🍣🎤📚 when they’re discussing a movie.

Messages from the Future

1. I’ve seen the future, and you’re going to get a huge surprise tomorrow!
2. Just wanted to let you know, in 3 days, something amazing will happen to you!
3. I’ve come from the future to tell you: Avoid all green apples on Thursday!
4. In 2025, you’re going to be famous for something ridiculous!
5. I’m from the future, and you’re going to get a call from someone you haven’t heard from in years.
6. In about 3 hours, you’ll receive a message that changes everything. Brace yourself!
7. I just visited your future, and you’re going to be really surprised by your new hairstyle.
8. By next week, you’ll have the most unexpected guest knock on your door!
9. I’ve seen your future, and you will be taking an unplanned vacation next month!
10. I know this sounds crazy, but you’ll find a mysterious package under your bed in 5 years.

Scare Tactics

1. Don’t turn around. I’m watching you right now.
2. I know where you are, and I know what you’re doing.
3. You should probably check your window… I think someone is outside.
4. I heard footsteps behind you, but when I looked, no one was there.
5. You won’t believe this, but someone in your house isn’t supposed to be there.
6. I’ve been hearing strange noises through the phone, like someone whispering your name.
7. I think you’ve left something behind… but it’s not something you want to find.
8. There’s someone following you. You need to be careful!
9. I just got a strange text from an unknown number saying they’re coming for you.
10. Check your phone’s camera. There’s something strange happening behind you.

Pretend Text Conversations

1. Create a fake conversation where you pretend to text with a celebrity, showing them how they said they were your biggest fan.
2. Start a conversation where you’re texting yourself, replying as both you and the other person to confuse your friend.
3. Send a fake text chain between two fictional people discussing a crazy scenario involving your friend.
4. Pretend to be texting with their parent or relative, asking about something embarrassing like their favorite childhood toy.
5. Create a text chain where you ask them for advice, then later pretend you found the same advice on the internet and share it back to them.
6. Fake a conversation with a mutual friend, asking them to pretend to be confused about a situation to mess with your other friend.
7. Text a whole fake argument between you and someone else, making it look like it’s a drama-filled moment.
8. Pretend you’re texting with a customer service bot, asking about a ridiculous made-up issue.
9. Set up a fake group chat where everyone is talking about them behind their back, then send them the link.
10. Set up a fake conversation between two people about an event they think they missed, causing confusion about something non-existent.

Misleading App Alerts

1. Send a fake notification that their phone storage is almost full and they need to delete 500 photos, or else their phone will crash.
2. Text a fake app update alert, saying they need to update their messaging app immediately to avoid missing important texts.
3. Create a fake social media notification telling them someone commented on their photo, but it’s completely random and out of context.
4. Pretend that their phone security app has detected a virus and it’s threatening their device, with instructions to click here.
5. Send a fake notification from a shopping app saying their order is on its way, but they never ordered anything.
6. Text a fake alert that their phone is being tracked and ask them to reboot their phone immediately.
7. Send an alert claiming their bank account is at risk and they need to verify it via a suspicious link.
8. Pretend they’ve received a message from a dating app they don’t use, and there’s an urgent alert about their profile.
9. Set up a fake alarm app that goes off every hour, saying it’s an emergency, just to annoy them.
10. Send a message pretending to be an app that detected your location and asks if you’re near a known dangerous zone.

Mind Games

1. Keep texting, I know you know, but do you really know what I know?
2. Text them random statements like, You just thought about purple, didn’t you?
3. Send messages that imply you can read their mind, like, You’re thinking about lunch, aren’t you?
4. Start a conversation that sounds completely normal, but then suddenly text, Was that real, or were you imagining that?
5. Text them confusing statements like, What happens if I told you you’re living in a simulation?
6. Ask them, Do you remember this moment, or do you only think you do? and leave them questioning.
7. Keep sending random riddles or puzzles with the message You’ll never guess what this means!
8. Text them, Do you believe in déjà vu? I think I’ve texted this before…
9. Respond to everything they say with I’m not sure if that’s what you really think.
10. Text, What if everything you see right now is an illusion? and leave them to ponder.

Fake Legal or Official Notices

1. Send a text pretending to be from a court system, stating they have missed an important jury duty and need to respond immediately.
2. Create a fake tax audit notification, saying their taxes are under review, with strange requests for bizarre documentation.
3. Text them claiming they have a fine due from an unpaid parking ticket, even though they’ve never been to that area.
4. Pretend to be from a law firm, telling them they’ve been listed in a lawsuit regarding a fictitious issue.
5. Send a fake notification about their business being under investigation by a government agency.
6. Pretend that they’ve been summoned for a mandatory training or seminar, with odd and vague details about the event.
7. Text a fake official government letter saying their personal information has been exposed, and they must take action immediately.
8. Create a fake notice about an expiring legal contract that they never signed, with outrageous terms.
9. Send a message that they’ve been placed on a watchlist due to a bizarre reason like excessive hotdog consumption.
10. Pretend you’re sending an official notification about their tax exemption status being revoked for no reason.

Random Prank Calls by Text

1. Text them pretending to be a wrong number, then continue the conversation as if you know them personally.
2. Send a message pretending to be a prank call company, asking if they want to sign up for random calls all day long.
3. Text them an exaggerated claim like, I’m from the pizza place, and you ordered 100 pizzas… is that correct?
4. Create a fake emergency text saying, This is your bank, and we need your PIN number to process a loan application you didn’t make.
5. Send a random text that sounds like a customer service bot: Can you please confirm your order of 500 balloons?
6. Pretend to be a telemarketer and offer them something ridiculous, like a lifetime supply of rubber bands.
7. Text them a random prank call alert saying someone’s been trying to reach them but won’t leave a message.
8. Create a fake text about their account being charged for something weird, like a subscription to sock knitting tutorials.
9. Text them as if you’re a confused friend asking for help with a bizarre tech issue.
10. Pretend you’re calling from an imaginary company, offering them free services they didn’t sign up for, like free cheese delivery or invisible ink pens.

Fake Relationships

1. Text them as if you’re an ex, pretending you just realized you made a huge mistake and want to get back together.
2. Start a conversation pretending you’re someone they used to date and asking about their current relationship.
3. Pretend you’re a secret admirer, and send cryptic and flirtatious messages to confuse them.
4. Text them claiming that someone they know has been secretly crushing on them for years.
5. Act like you’re a friend of their ex, and pretend their ex wants to reconnect, causing confusion.
6. Send messages pretending you’re a long-lost sibling or relative reaching out after years of separation.
7. Text them as if you’re a cousin or family member, asking them to help with something absurd and personal.
8. Pretend you’re a fake partner asking them to meet their parents under awkward circumstances.
9. Send texts pretending you’re in a fake relationship with them and telling them about their future together.
10. Start texting them as if you are their future spouse, mentioning weird details about your wedding plans.

Unusual Request

1. Ask them to send you a video of their shoes walking in circles.
2. Text them asking if they can go outside and send a photo of their shadow at exactly 5 p.m.
3. Request them to send you a picture of their fridge contents for no reason.
4. Ask them if they can text you the most random item they have in their kitchen.
5. Text them and ask them to take a picture of their left hand in a specific position.
6. Request that they send you a recording of them pretending to be a robot for 10 seconds.
7. Ask them to film themselves jumping on one leg while texting you back.
8. Send a message asking if they can send a picture of the floor under their desk.
9. Request that they go outside and send you a video of them saying the sky is purple to anyone who passes by.
10. Ask them to draw a picture of a random object (like a potato) and send it to you within the next five minutes.

What is a Text Message Prank?

• The Basics of Text Message Pranks

A text message prank is exactly what it sounds like—a joke or trick played on someone via text message. Whether it’s something as simple as pretending to be someone else or using a clever ruse to confuse your recipient, these pranks are meant to be lighthearted and funny. They’re often crafted to surprise, trick, or amuse the recipient, leaving everyone involved with a good story to tell.

• Why Text Message Pranks Are Popular

Why are text message pranks so popular? For one, they’re easy to execute. All you need is a smartphone and a clever idea. Plus, they can be done anytime and anywhere—whether you’re bored at home or trying to kill time during a long day. They offer a quick burst of fun without the need for elaborate setups. And let’s be real—nothing beats the hilarity of watching a friend trying to make sense of a confusing or silly text!

Benefits of Text Message Pranks

• Bringing Laughter and Fun to Everyday Life

Life can be stressful, and a funny text message prank can instantly lighten the mood. It’s a quick way to make someone smile, especially when they least expect it. Whether you’re pranking your best friend or a sibling, these messages can break the monotony of daily life and provide some much-needed comic relief.

• Strengthening Friendships with Lighthearted Humor

A good prank can strengthen bonds between friends. Shared laughter creates memories and inside jokes that bring people closer. Just make sure the prank is in good fun and not at someone’s expense, and you’ll be on the fast track to forging stronger relationships.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Text Message Pranks

• Ensuring Your Prank is Harmless

The golden rule of pranking? Keep it harmless! The goal is to make the recipient laugh, not cause distress or harm. A well-executed prank should leave your friend chuckling, not upset or confused for too long. Think about how the prank might be received and adjust accordingly.

• Knowing When to Stop

Even the best pranks can go south if pushed too far. Know when to stop, especially if the person seems genuinely confused or irritated. Pranks should never be overdone or repeated too frequently, as they can lose their charm and become annoying.

• Avoiding Hurtful or Offensive Content

Be careful not to include offensive or hurtful content in your text message prank. Avoid touchy subjects like personal insecurities or sensitive topics. The best pranks are funny for everyone involved and don’t come at anyone’s expense.

Pranking Your Friends Vs. Strangers: What’s the Difference?

• Pranking Close Friends

Pranking close friends is usually safe ground since they know you well and can take a joke. The key is to keep the pranks lighthearted and within boundaries you know they’ll appreciate.

• Avoiding Strangers When Pranking

It’s generally best to avoid pranking strangers. Pranks aimed at people you don’t know can easily be taken the wrong way or cause unnecessary confusion. Stick to people who know you and can laugh off your jokes.

How to Make Sure Your Prank Doesn’t Go Too Far

• Reading the Room: Understanding When to Stop

Always be aware of how your prank is being received. If the person seems confused or upset, it’s time to pull back and let them in on the joke. Reading the room is key to making sure your prank is funny and not hurtful.

• Apologizing if Things Get Out of Hand

If your prank accidentally crosses a line, don’t hesitate to apologize. A simple “Sorry, I didn’t mean for that to go too far!” can go a long way in mending any unintended feelings.

Why Timing Matters in a Text Message Prank

• Choosing the Right Moment

Timing is everything when it comes to pranks. Don’t send prank messages at inappropriate times, like during an important meeting or when your friend is dealing with something serious. Pick moments when you know they’re free to laugh and engage.

• Not Pranking During Important Moments

Avoid pranking during key events like job interviews, family emergencies, or other serious occasions. You want your prank to bring joy, not frustration or stress.

The Best Apps for Text Message Pranks

• Apps That Help You Prank Your Friends

There are several apps designed specifically to help you prank your friends via text. These apps allow you to create fake messages, schedule delayed responses, and even simulate fake phone calls. Just remember to use them responsibly!

• Keeping It Fun with Harmless Apps

The best apps are the ones that keep the pranks light and fun. Look for apps that focus on harmless pranks without causing confusion or worry.

Text Message Pranks for Different Occasions

• Pranking on Birthdays

Text message pranks are perfect for birthdays! Try pretending you forgot their birthday, only to reveal later that you planned a surprise all along.

• April Fool’s Day Pranks

April Fool’s Day is practically made for pranks. On this day, feel free to go all out with your most creative text message pranks!

• Holiday-Themed Text Pranks

Get festive with holiday-themed pranks, like pretending Santa sent them a message or that they’ve been chosen to help the Easter Bunny. Holidays are a great time to spread some cheer and laughter.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 200+ text message prank ideas are perfect for adding a bit of fun and mischief to your daily conversations. Whether you’re looking to surprise a friend or simply lighten the mood, these pranks will definitely bring some laughs. Just remember to keep it light-hearted and playful! If you’re dealing with someone who’s not into the prank spirit or always bringing negative vibes, check out our guide on 200+ Comebacks For Someone Who’s Always Negative for witty responses to handle those tricky conversations. Happy pranking!

FAQs

Q. Are text message pranks legal?

Yes, text message pranks are generally legal as long as they’re harmless and not intended to cause harm, distress, or violate any laws.

Q. What should I do if someone gets upset by a prank?

If someone gets upset, apologize immediately and explain that it was meant to be a joke. It’s important to be understanding if your prank doesn’t go over well.

Q. How do I make sure a prank is funny and not offensive?

Keep your prank lighthearted, avoid sensitive topics, and always consider how the recipient might feel before you send it.

Q. Can text message pranks damage friendships?

While most pranks are harmless fun, they can hurt friendships if they’re mean-spirited or cross a line. Always prank with care and ensure the recipient knows it’s all in good fun.

Q. What’s the best time to send a prank message?

The best time is when the recipient is free and in a relaxed mood. Avoid important moments or times of stress when your prank might be more irritating than funny.