Random Number Added to 1:1 Texts

Hi traceyfromoviedo,

Per the support article Add and remove people in group text messages on your iPhone or iPad:

"You can’t add or remove people in group SMS/MMS messages and you can't add or remove someone if anyone in the group uses a non-Apple device. Learn the difference between iMessage and SMS/MMS messages." and "If you can't add or remove someone in a group message

You can only remove someone if the group has four or more people, and everyone is using an Apple device, like an iPhone or iPad."

as well as this from Leave a group text message thread on your iPhone or iPad:

"You can leave a group text message as long as there are three other people on the thread and everyone is using an Apple device."

It's unclear from your post if this other number is using a non-Apple device, or if you cannot remove individuals because there are not enough people remaining in the group.

Further, as you indicate this occurs when you send messages to your son, verify the contact you have stored for him is not associated with this number. Delete the group conversation on both devices, and see if it continues if your son initiates the message to you instead.

Regards.

Hello traceyfromoviedo,

What happens when you try to delete the conversation? This is important as our next suggested step is to delete the thread, then start a new one with your son: Delete messages on iPhone - Apple Support

Let us know! Take care.

Good afternoon traceyfromoviedo,

Based on the troubleshooting you have already tried, it might be helpful for you to speak directly with Apple about this issue.  They'll be in the best position to investigate this further.  Click the link below, choose the phone number for your region (or the closest one to it) from the list, and call when it is convenient. 

Contact Apple for support and service - Apple Support

Take care.

This is also happening to my son. When I text him, my phone doesn’t show the random number. When my son receives the message it is now a group message with number from Textnow (660)628-8779. When he replies I receive as a group message. We tried deleting thread on both I-phones and even updated ISO to latest. When he starts a tread it adds the textnow number. This only happens when he texts me or I text him. When we group text with one other person it doesn’t happen.