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A Tele2 subscriber in Kazakhstan has sparked a widespread discussion online after complaining about accumulating debt on a SIM card they had not used for months. The situation has raised questions about transparency in mobile operator contracts and the potential for unexpected charges.

Unexpected Charges on Unused SIM

The subscriber reported that they had initially signed up for a tariff plan costing around 5،000 tenge، which was part of a promotional offer. However، after the promotion ended، the monthly cost reportedly increased to 8،990 tenge. Despite not using the SIM card for several months، the user discovered a negative balance of 5،700 tenge when checking their account.

'More Like a Microloan'

Expressing frustration، the customer stated، "It's not like mobile service، it's more like a microloan." They explained that they initially assumed the charge was a standard monthly subscription fee. Upon adding funds، they realized the accumulated debt was due to penalties for not using the SIM card.

The subscriber also questioned the clarity of such terms for customers، lamenting، "Where is this written؟ Who reads a 100-page document in small print؟ People only find out when they're in debt."

Operator's Explanation

Tele2's press service clarified that the charges were not for non-usage of the SIM card itself، but rather a consequence of violating the terms of a specific contractual tariff. "There are no penalties for not using a SIM card. Some contractual tariffs stipulate penalties for contract violations. In simple terms، this happens if the contract is terminated before its term،" a company representative explained.

According to Tele2، subscribers confirm their agreement to these terms via an electronic digital signature (EDS) when activating such tariffs. The company emphasized that customers are expected to adhere to the conditions outlined in the contract if they are not met. The request to activate a tariff is a crucial step in the registration process، and subscribers are provided with links and full information about the tariff before activation، agreeing to its annual terms.

Notification Process

Tele2 also stated that they inform subscribers about upcoming payments and potential consequences. "We notify the subscriber a few days before the scheduled payment about the need to make the monthly fee. If the payment is not received، the subscriber receives an SMS notification before penalties are calculated،" the company noted.

For subscribers who plan to temporarily stop using their number، the company advises switching to a different tariff plan in advance.

Where to Find Penalty Information

Details regarding penalties are available on the mobile operator's website، specifically in the section for contractual tariffs. Additional information on contract termination conditions can also be found there. One such clause states that the contract may be terminated if the subscription fee is not paid between the 31st and 60th day.