Class Action Lawsuit Against UK Mobile Operators

Introduction to the Lawsuit

O2, Vodafone, EE, and Three are facing a huge class action lawsuit in the UK for allegedly overcharging millions of loyal customers. The case, called a fidelity penalty lawsuit, alleges that companies charged long-term customers for their cell phones beyond the term of the contract.

Scope of the Lawsuit

It is claimed that up to 10.9 million phone contracts were affected between October 1, 2015, and March 31, 2025. The lawsuit seeks at least £1.141 billion in damages. If successful, each affected person could be entitled to up to £104 for each contract they signed with the operators.

Details of the Claim

The lawsuit, filed by a consumer rights expert, was admitted to trial by the Competition Appeal Tribunal. It is filed on behalf of consumers who have wireless contracts consisting of a cell phone and airtime services such as data, minutes, and calls. When these contracts are concluded, the price includes both mobile communications and the use of airtime services during the minimum contract period.

Allegations Against Mobile Operators

The lawsuit alleges that the operators failed to reduce the amount charged after the minimum contract period expired, even though customers had already paid for their cell phones. This resulted in existing customers being charged more than new customers who would only pay for airtime services.

Response from Mobile Operators

A spokesperson for O2 said that the company welcomes the Competition Appeal Tribunal’s decision that the bulk of the claim lacks a basis for action, which significantly limits its scope. An EE spokesman said that the company does not accept the substantive allegations in the lawsuit and will continue to vigorously defend its position. Vodafone and Three also stated that they will review the judgment in detail before considering next steps and will continue to vigorously defend the claim.

Next Steps for the Lawsuit

All eligible customers will automatically be included in the claim at no charge unless they follow specific steps to opt-out. The lawsuit is expected to proceed to trial, with the consumer rights expert claiming that telephone companies have taken advantage of their loyal customers for far too long. The expert believes that it’s time to stop the immoral practice of loyalty punishments.