NBTC Issues Number Preservation Service for Prepaid Users to Prevent Accidental Account Cancellation - Effective Today
Thailand's telecom regulator rolled out a number preservation service for prepaid users today, automatically charging 3 baht per month to keep accounts active for up to 180 days and prevent accidental number loss. Users can opt out by notif
The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) announced today the implementation of a number preservation service for prepaid mobile phone users, effective immediately. Deputy Secretary-General Trairat Viriyasirithakul, acting in place of the NBTC Secretary-General, explained that this service protects prepaid users (excluding tourist SIMs) from losing their numbers when their service expires but still have credit remaining. The service automatically extends service validity by charging 3 baht per transaction (excluding VAT) and adding 30 days of usage, with a maximum of 6 consecutive charges totaling 180 days of protection.
Mobile operators will send SMS notifications at least 3 days before the service expiration date, informing subscribers of the upcoming charge and how to opt out. Subscribers who wish to decline the automatic charge can notify their provider at least one day before their service expires, or can re-enable the service anytime by contacting their mobile operator.
The number preservation service will cease in two cases: when the account balance is insufficient to cover the preservation fee, or after 6 consecutive automatic charges without any new top-up, at which point the service contract will be terminated and the number will be recycled for reassignment.
