Martin Lewis, founder of MoneySavingExpert.com, is advising O2 customers to dial a simple five-digit code to facilitate switching providers in response to O2’s recent announcement of a £2.50 monthly price increase. The unexpected hike has prompted Lewis to encourage customers to explore other mobile suppliers and make informed decisions.
The 52-year-old financial expert cautioned users about O2’s confusing messaging regarding contract terms. He explained, “When O2 notifies you about its airtime price hike, you have the RIGHT to leave penalty-free within 30 days of receiving the notification. However, if you have a device plan, you still need to pay off your handset in full. That doesn’t mean you need to pay it all immediately—you can continue making monthly payments for your handset while moving your SIM, meaning your airtime plan, to a new provider.”
Speaking last Tuesday, Martin Lewis emphasized, “When companies increase our costs unexpectedly, we need to push back by switching providers, causing them to lose customers, brand strength, and reputation. This helps stop unfair price hikes not only with that company but also across the mobile, broadband, and pay TV industries. So don’t just leave for your own benefit—leave for everyone else too.”
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Lewis explained the final step in switching providers: texting “PAC” to 65075 to request your Porting Authorization Code, which is free of charge. “This code lets you give your number to your new provider, enabling you to keep your existing mobile number. Often, once you request a PAC, your current provider may try to persuade you to stay by offering discounts. It’s a form of haggling, so use it wisely. If you’re out of contract, just text PAC to 65075, pretend you’re leaving, and see if they offer a better deal.”
Responding to the backlash, an O2 spokesperson said, “As acknowledged by Ofcom, providers are allowed to increase annual prices to invest in network improvements. The 8p per day price increase is offset by the £700 million O2 invests annually in its mobile network. Our market remains highly competitive with some of the lowest prices internationally. We’ve been transparent with customers and informed them directly about the changes, including their right to exit without penalty.”