Virgin Media O2 slams rivals for fleecing customers with endless handset fees
Rivals ‘swindling’ customers out of millions, claims Virgin Media O2
Virgin Media O2 has blasted other networks for keeping customers locked into contracts that still charge for handsets long after they’ve been paid off. The company says this sneaky practice is costing UK mobile users a whopping £530 million every year.
Survey reveals millions trapped on costly contracts
A recent survey commissioned by Virgin Media O2 found 3.9% of mobile users on EE, 1, and Three are stuck on rolled-over contracts charging for phones they already own. Virgin’s solution? Split contracts that automatically drop once the handset is paid for. They’ve been using this system for over ten years and claim more than 95% of their customers benefit from it.
Rivals hit back amid bitter contract row
But EE, 1, and Three have fired back, branding Virgin’s claims as “misleading” and “confusing.”
- EE owner BT points to its Flexpay plan, which cuts charges after handset payments end.
- 1 accused Virgin Media O2 of spreading incorrect information about mobile contracts.
- Three highlighted their split contract option that separates device payments from monthly airtime bills.
Check your contracts — and don’t get ripped off
Experts warn mobile users to watch their contract terms closely. When the handset is paid off, customers should switch to cheaper plans covering just calls, texts, and data.
Virgin Media O2 stresses: “Customers shouldn’t get stuck paying full phone prices forever.”
The feud shows the importance of regular contract check-ups so you’re not left handing over extra cash for a phone you already own.
