Residents and visitors along the north Norfolk coast have reported unexpected mobile roaming charges after their phones automatically switched to Maritime networks despite not leaving the UK.
From Cromer to Sea Palling, users say their devices disconnected from their usual providers and linked to nearby maritime signals, triggering warnings of international roaming fees.
North Norfolk MP Steff Aquarone criticised the situation, saying:
“This is not good enough. People need clarity and reassurance they will not be charged international fees simply for using their phones on the cliffs of our beautiful county.”
Residents Face Sky-High Charges
Cromer resident Mark Oakland received a notification warning of potential £13-per-minute data charges while browsing the BBC Sports app on the promenade.
“I thought this is absolutely crazy. It wouldn’t disconnect, even when I walked back towards Overstrand Road. In the end, I had to restart my phone,” he said.
Nigel Hogg, musical director for Cromer Pier, also warned about potential costs after receiving a text from EE suggesting calls could cost £3.35 a minute.
“I could unsuspectingly make a business call for several minutes and be £30 or £40 in debt without realising,” he added.
EE Responds to Concerns
An EE spokesperson explained that mobile devices are designed to automatically connect to the strongest available signal, which can result in phones linking to nearby maritime networks.
“When this happens, customers are notified via a landing message with information on any associated costs. If anyone is charged incorrectly, we would issue refunds where appropriate,” the spokesperson said.
The company has advised affected customers to turn off roaming in their device settings or apply a roaming bar to prevent unexpected charges.
Call for Better Network Coverage
Mr Aquarone has urged telecom providers to improve mobile signal coverage along the North Norfolk coastline to prevent phones from defaulting to costly maritime networks.
“Boosting local network strength is the fastest way to stop devices from connecting to offshore signals,” he said.
