Safaricom to lose over 600,000 users in switch off

Leading integrated communications service provider, Safaricom will comply with Communication Commission of Kenya counterfeit switch off deadline.

Safaricom is set to switch off all counterfeit handsets on its network commencing September 30, 2012 at 2359 hours.

Approximately 600,000 out of Safaricom’s 19.1 Million subscriber base will be affected by the switch off.

“We deeply regret the inconvenience that this switch off will cause to our innocent subscribers. We have been contacting all affected customers and providing them with affordable genuine options”’ Safaricom CEO Bob Collymore said.

Collymore further stated that the exercise will only be successful if all operators play their part.

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“For technical reasons, We will conduct the counterfeit handsets switch off in phases. The exchange of data with other operators for blocked handsets will begin by October 1, to ensure cross network blocking”, added Safaricom boss

He further stated that, “We recognise that blocking handsets alone is not the long term solution and we call for more support to the CCK by related Government agencies to block entry and sale of the counterfeit devices and to step up prosecution of those who engage in the vice.”

Subscribers can confirm the authenticity of their handsets by dialing *#06# to get the IMEI number and send it to 1555.