There is something extra special about opening the box for a new handset and getting to know a fresh phone. Whether you have just upgraded to a new provider or switched from a contract to pay-as-you-go, you might be wondering whether you have to forfeit your old number for a new one to take its place. Some people don’t mind doing this, but others prefer to stick with what they know. People often keep mobile numbers for as long as they can because it makes sense in a lot of ways, but is it worth it overall? Read on to find out.
Top Reasons Why People Choose to Keep Their Number
Let us first explore why people might want to keep their number at all. If they are moving to a new provider, there has to be a motive behind this decision; for instance, better reception coverage where you live, or a cost-saving angle. Whatever the reason might be, keeping the same number gives you some level of consistency that is irreplaceable should you pick to change.
Convenience
The real benefit to keeping a mobile number the same is that you do not have to go through the administration side of switching to a new one. All of your bills, services, friends, family, and random contacts you’ve stored for a rainy day can keep on getting in touch, without having to get in touch with each individual to let them know your new digits.
Minimising Identity Theft
Do you know what happens to a number when it stops being yours? It gets reassigned to any random person who takes it. That means you are exposed to a whole world of risk regarding identity fraud and theft. You will always have ties to that phone number, and it may take lengthy court proceedings to prove that whatever happens next with it was not in your name. Keeping the same number protects you from all of this because it’s never an option for someone else to use it for bad purposes.
Top Reasons to Change a Personal Number
These are compelling reasons to keep a number, so why do some people disregard them and opt for the alternative? It is a personal choice, after all, and therefore these reasons are often of that nature too.
To Stop Spam Calls
The biggest reason a person might decide to make the switch to a brand-new phone number is that they are being harassed by spam calls. One or two spam phone calls are not enough to drive you insane, but if enough people get a hold of your data and, therefore, your number, then it can become inundated with unwanted contacts that never quit. This level of nuisance can cause severe anxiety and stop you from being able to enjoy your phone for what it should be, i.e., getting in touch with your close circle and general entertainment.
For a Clean Break
Another reason why it might be time to say goodbye to a number, as well as a provider, is to avoid someone you do not want to be able to contact you. This might be an ex-partner that caused you harm or an old friend that did you wrong. Whatever the motivation, a fresh start and a clean break are appealing in a range of circumstances, and it is only when you get it that you feel able to begin a new journey toward freedom and independence.
How to Keep the Same Phone Number
If you are looking at keeping the same phone number, you first need to know what the process is. Porting your number is a common enough process, and it can be done fairly easily. The one thing you will need is a PAC code, otherwise known as a Port Authorisation Code. So, what do you need to do?
Send a Text
Your PAC code is given by your current provider so that you can give it to your new one. Once requested, it should arrive quickly, typically within a few hours. If it doesn’t arrive within this time limit, get in touch immediately because the provider will be going against the regulations. PAC codes are a unique identifier linked to your specific number, so you will have to prove that you are who you say you are to your network before they release it. Verification is easy enough, as long as you have the right answers. Expect the PAC to have nine digits and last for 30 days once issued.
Pass Along the Information
Once you have the code, it’s time for action. Make a call to your new provider and give them what they need. They will take it from there, in that they will contact your old provider and make all the arrangements on your behalf. Everything will happen within 24 hours, so it is worth hanging onto your old SIM card in the interim period. Bear in mind that this is only true for working days, so weekend engagements may take a little longer to complete.
Check Everything is Up and Running
Once the switch is complete, you have to make sure your new SIM card and new provider are working properly. Try making a call, and if it works then you are good to go! Normally, there are no real issues when it comes to transferring a mobile number so you should not find any to speak of.
Most Asked Questions When Switching Your Number to a New Carrier
Here are some answers to the most common queries people have about switching providers but keeping old numbers active.
Will I Be Without Service?
No, you won’t be without service. There is no real reason why the service should be interrupted. There could be a couple of minutes while the switch is being processed when service is depleted, but it will only be a few minutes, and everything will resume rapidly.
What If My Contract is Cancelled First?
If your number becomes disconnected, then you will not be able to re-activate it for these purposes. It takes time for a phone number to come back into circulation and general use, so once gone you won’t be able to get it back anytime soon.
What About My Contacts?
If you’re hoping to transfer data over, this is a different question entirely. You will be able to keep your number, but if you want the contacts and everything else to come with it then you will have to make sure this is all backed up on virtual storage for access down the line. Sometimes, contacts are saved to a SIM card, in which case you don’t have to do anything at all because they will just come with you when the time is right.
So, is it worth keeping the same mobile number if you switch to a new provider? It depends on how passionate you feel about the matter. For some mobile users, keeping a consistent number is a matter of convenience, while for others, they may have special reasons to switch numbers like avoiding a past relationship or starting a fresh for other reasons. It is worth making a list of pros and cons in line with your circumstances to see which side comes out the strongest.