How to Retrieve Lost SMS Messages for Free

1. Search the Internet for free SMS message recovery software. Examples include SIM Manager, Recover Deleted SMS and Free Recovery (see Resources). Save the software file to your desktop.
2. Follow the instructions for installing the software. Restart your computer to complete the installation.
3. Attach the USB cable to your phone's input jack. Attach the other end to your desktop computer or laptop's USB port.
4. Click 'Start' and 'All Programs.' Double-click the SMS recovery software to launch it. You may also have a copy of the software on your desktop.
5. Select 'Scan' or 'Recover.' Wait for the software to search through your phone's SIM card for deleted messages.
6. Look through the list of messages recovered on the software. Click the message you want to retrieve. Select 'Restore' or 'Undelete' to retrieve the message and save it to your phone's inbox.