Analogue Switch Off

Scammers are already exploiting fears about the copper network switch-off in 2025 to target vulnerable customers. In particular, they are phoning people who use health devices that rely on the existing network, such as personal alarms that contact emergency services. They pretend to be from the NHS or your phone company and ask for personal details. Some threaten to disconnect you if you don't hand over your bank details. The warning comes from the Local Government Association (LGA), which says that 1.8 million people in the UK use telephone-based health devices. A resident’s current telephone provider should provide digitally capable products free of charge if current phone etc doesn’t work with digital services.

Scammers are also getting in touch offering to sell equipment to enable customers to operate their phones when the copper network is switched off. Please do not agree to buying any equipment from a cold caller – your telephone company is required to provide you with equipment free of charge.