Where are messages and alertson M1

I have a couple of issues with my M1 since installing the firmware update from Telstra about a week ago. There is a large Telstra window on the dashboard saying a non-Telstra pre-paid sim was detected: note down this number as you will need it later; but there is no number, just a blank space. I am meant to activate it. My account is post -paid.

The M1 keeps telling me I have messages and alerts but I can't see them at m.home. I used to be able to see messages before updating but I don't even know where to see alerts.

Links to help, support etc don't work. If I click on log-out it says "invalid command"

I've spent hours talking and chatting online to Telstra, not getting call-backs and shunted from one person to another; they finally gave me a number to take to a Telstra shop and they would give me a new sim, but I can't get to a Telstra shop for about a week (at sea).

I have connection, just all these inconveniences. I'm afraid I have little confidence a new sim will fix. Any ideas out there?

Thanks