Uswitch responds to VMO2 ‘smartphone swindle’ campaign

Ernest Doku, telecoms expert at Uswitch.com comments:

“VMO2’s research around handset overpayments highlights an issue we’ve been talking about for many years and is now more significant than ever. Households are facing inflation-linked mobile and broadband price hikes higher than we’ve seen in decades. 

“Too many people are still overpaying on their mobile bills, and it’s very concerning that older people and those on the lowest incomes are disproportionately affected. More work needs to be done to raise consumer awareness around the contracts they sign up to and, importantly, their options when they come to an end.

“However, it’s important to note that bundled contracts, both directly from networks and through third party retailers, can be cheaper over their initial duration than their split equivalents, which speaks to their enduring appeal for cost-conscious consumers.

“Some customers also may not realise they are taking out personal loans for the device portion of the contract, which can have implications for their credit history. Giving customers both choice and transparency around their contract is essential, so they can make the right decision for their own circumstances. 

“It’s vital that people know when their contract period is coming to an end. Keeping your phone and switching from a 24-month handset contract to a SIM-only contract could save as much as £335 per year, according to Uswitch data. 

“We wholeheartedly agree that consumers need to be armed with more choice, clarity and control when it comes to their mobile contract. The key is simply to take action, whether switching or sticking to your current provider, as the penalty for doing nothing is a bitter pill - and a bigger bill - to swallow.” 

Sarika Patel

Senior PR Manager

sarika.patel@uswitch.com

About Uswitch 

Uswitch is one of the UK’s top comparison websites for home services switching, including energy, broadband and mobiles. 

More people go to Uswitch to switch their energy, broadband and mobile than any other site, and we have saved consumers over £2.7 billion off their bills since we launched in September 2000.

Free mobile app Utrack also helps households manage their home energy usage and make potential savings. 

Uswitch is part of RVU, a group of online brands with a mission to empower consumers to make more confident home services, insurance and financial decisions.