Please note that a mobile number can be assigned to two different people.

By Stéphanie Delmas Posted, Updated

Rare case, but not impossible, an identical mobile number can be assigned to two customers, on different networks. If the mobile operator refuses to act or denies the facts, referral to the Telecom Mediator, which has ruled in favor of compensation for a customer injured by such an anomaly, may be the solution.

This should not happen and yet it is not a textbook case. You only have to browse the forums of mobile operators to understand that it is ultimately not impossible to see your mobile number assigned twice, on different networks.

This mishap happened to Mr. H who noticed that his mobile number was being used by someone else, on the network of a competing operator. After trying to solve the problem with his service provider, in vain, he contacted the Electronic Communications Mediator.

One mobile number, two customers

"It is in fact theoretically impossible for the same number to be used, at the same time, on two different mobile networks", affirms the Mediator Valérie Alvarez before acknowledging that "the research carried out with the two operators concerned has nevertheless made it possible to confirm (…) that the number in question was actually used by two consumers, each of them being able to rely on a valid subscription contract”.

It would be, without certainty, a malfunction that occurred during the number portability procedure. Since the Mediator was not able to identify the operator at the origin of the anomaly, she nevertheless recognizes that Mr. H was not responsible and that his mobile operator had an obligation of result towards him. As such, it invites the professional to change the number of his client and to award him damages.

The Telecom mediator, a free and effective solution

A free and confidential process, referral to the Electronic Communications Mediator can be useful when a dispute arises with a telephone operator. You must first have appealed in writing to your operator and it is only if the response is late or unsatisfactory that you must contact the Telecom Mediator. If the file is admissible, a response is provided within 90 days. The independence of the mediator is guaranteed.