Click on the myths below to discover the truth about some common Digital Switchover misconceptions:
Margaret’s story…
Margaret, 72, has been using the same landline phone for over 15 years. When she heard about the digital switchover, she panicked. Did this mean she’d need to spend money on a brand-new phone?
She called her phone provider and was relieved to learn that most existing handsets will still work after the switch! The only difference is that they’ll be plugged into a broadband router instead of the old wall socket.
📌 Truth: Nearly all landline phones will continue to work with the new digital system. If you’re unsure, contact your phone provider!
Tom’s story…
Tom has had the same phone number for over 30 years. He’s worried that switching to digital means he’ll have to try and remember a brand-new number.
After a quick chat with his phone company, he was relieved to find out that he can keep his existing number – as long as he stays with the same provider or arranges for it to be transferred.
📌 Truth: In most cases, you can keep your phone number when switching to digital. Just call your phone provider to double check.
Dorothy’s story…
Dorothy lives alone in a village and relies on her landline. When she heard that digital landlines don’t work during power cuts, she became anxious. How would she call for help in an emergency?
She spoke with her phone provider, who explained that there are backup options available. Some companies offer battery-powered solutions. She was also advised to keep a fully charged mobile phone handy for emergencies.
📌 Truth: Digital landlines won’t work in power cuts, but backup options are available, just speak to your phone provider! Keeping a charged mobile phone to hand is also a good idea.
Brian’s story…
Brian doesn’t trust big companies. When he heard about the switchover, he thought it was just another way for providers to increase prices and force people to pay more.
He did some research and found out that BT and Virgin Media have already confirmed that there are no extra charges just for switching. Prices only change if customers decide to upgrade their services.
📌 Truth: The switch to digital should not increase your bill, but if you choose new services, your costs may change. Speak to your phone provider to find out more.
Betty’s story…
Betty received a call from someone claiming to be her phone provider. They told her she needed to pay immediately to avoid losing her landline. Luckily, Betty had read about scams related to the digital switchover and knew what to do.
She hung up and called her phone provider directly using the official number on her bill. They confirmed it was a scam and reminded her that no legitimate company will ask for payment upfront over the phone.
📌 Truth: Scammers may try to use the switchover as an excuse to trick people. Never share personal details or make payments unless you’re 100% sure who you’re speaking to. If in doubt, hang up and call your phone provider directly.
Joe’s story…
Joe, 80, isn’t a fan of technology. When he first heard about the switch to digital, he imagined complicated setups, new wires, and technical headaches.
But when the day came, the process was simple. His phone provider sent him a small adapter, and all he had to do was plug his phone into the broadband router instead of the old phone socket. That was it!
📌 Truth: The switchover is easy. In most cases, it’s as simple as plugging your phone into a new connection. If you need help, your phone provider can guide you through it.
David’s story…
David thought that on one random morning, his landline would just stop working without warning. He imagined thousands of people being cut off at the same time!
His phone provider reassured him that the switchover is being rolled out gradually, and customers will be given plenty of notice before any changes happen.
📌 Truth: The switchover is happening in stages. Your phone provider will notify you in advance and support you through the transition.
