Although this new initiative isn’t relevant to business mobiles, individuals that use a mobile for personal use (which is pretty much all of us!) will be interested to know about a new regulation that’s come into effect.
As of 27 June 2019, mobile phone customers can now switch providers simply by sending a text message. Currently, customers who wish to switch providers have to ring their current provider and experience a pretty lengthy process, and of course, a speech about why you need to remain with them. According to Ofcom, having to speak to a provider can be one of the main factors stopping people from switching.
Customers who wish to switch and keep their existing phone number simply text “PAC” to 65075. Their existing provider will then be in touch, usually within a minute, with their PAC and important information regarding any early termination charges or pay-as-you-go credit balances.
The customer then gives the PAC to their new provider and voila! Your new provider will handle everything from there on.
Whilst most people want to keep their existing phone number, 1 in 6 do not. These customers need to text “STAC” to 75075 to request a “service termination authorisation code”.
After sending the free text, customers should be switched over to their new network within 1 working day. However, if you’re switching before your contract end date, early termination fees could apply.
This new process will make it a lot quicker and easier for users to leave their network provider, according to Ofcom.
Mobile phone providers that don’t abide by the new rules could be subject to an investigation or even fines.
Please note the above applies to personal-use mobile phone contracts only. If you’re tied in to a commercial-use contract, please contact your provider directly.
Elite Telecom Solutions are Hampshire’s most price-competitive business mobile phone provider, which means you’ll never have to leave for a cheaper alternative. Find out how much you could save on your business mobile packages by calling our team on 01962 864332.