Vodafone’s broadband outage has seen more than 130,000 people report issues getting online – sparking frustration among workers and businesses relying on connectivity
Vodafone customers are demanding compensation after a major outage left hundreds of thousands without internet and mobile service across the UK.
The disruption began shortly after 3pm and is still ongoing, with reports of widespread problems affecting broadband, 4G and 5G services. At its peak, the outage left more than 130,000 people unable to get online, sparking frustration among users, workers and businesses relying on connectivity.
Vodafone confirmed it was “aware of a major issue on our network affecting broadband, 4G and 5G services”, adding that engineers were “working urgently to fix the problem”. But as of late evening, broadband remains down in several major cities, with customers in London, Manchester, Birmingham and Glasgow all reporting difficulties.
Experts have warned the outage could have serious knock-on effects, potentially delaying payday for some, and disrupting essential online services. Other networks have also reportedly suffered difficulties, with customers of providers including Voxi, Three, EE, Sky and BT recording issues. Vodafone’s customer service line has also been affected, leaving many unable to get through for advice.
Users have vented their anger on social media, with many demanding compensation or discounts on their bills. One customer fumed: “WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU @VodafoneGroup I’ve had enough and I’ve not even been a Vodafone customer for a year yet…We all better get some compensation or I’ll be cancelling my contract.”
Another asked: “Will @VodafoneUK customers be getting compensation for the outage of service #Vodafone? Still out for hours!” A third said: “I’ve now had to take 2 hours unpaid which I will be claiming back from Vodafone (idc I want my money).”
As engineers continue to try and restore service, thousands across the UK remain offline and in the dark about when their connection will return.
In a statement, Vodafone said it was aware of the problems and working to fix them. The broadband provider also confirmed that the issues are affecting both its home broadband and mobile internet services. “We are aware of a major issue on our network currently affecting broadband, 4G and 5G services,! a spokesperson has said. “We appreciate our customers’ patience while we work to resolve this as soon as possible.”
