Community & Business
7 June, 2024
“Prepare for 3G switch-off,” says ombudsman
The upcoming 3G network switch-off in late August and early September will impact more than just mobile phone signals.
The upcoming 3G network switch-off in late August and early September will impact more than just mobile phone signals, according to Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, Bruce Billson. He has urged small, family, and farming businesses to prepare for the transition to avoid disruptions.
Billson emphasized that the switch-off could affect various electronic devices, including EFTPOS terminals, security systems, cameras, scanners, industrial routers, tablets, smartwatches, asset tracking tools, surveying instruments, and wireless operating systems on farms. Even some devices that use 4G networks may have components reliant on 3G, which users might not realize until they malfunction.
“It is vital small, family, and farming businesses take action urgently to find out if they will be affected and if so, upgrade their technology before business-harming disconnection and technology dysfunction is the first they learn about it,” Billson stated.
He advised small businesses to contact their telecommunications provider or device manufacturer to check if their devices will be affected by the switch-off. He also warned about potential scams and recommended using only trusted information and links when contacting mobile providers.
Switch-off Dates:
Telstra has announced that it will delay its 3G network switch-off until August 31, 2024.
Optus plans to switch off its 3G network from September 1, 2024.
TPG Telecom/Vodafone has already switched off its 3G network.
To avoid potential disruptions, businesses should take immediate steps to verify and, if necessary, upgrade their technology.
