I deeply regret choosing Telkom as my service provider.

I would like to express my deepest regret for ever having Telkom as my service provider.

For over 5 years, I’ve used the same number — my entire life is linked to it. It’s on my CV, my banking details, my child’s school records, my studies, and how lawyers contact me regarding my late son’s father. It’s the only number people know me by.

Now I’m told by a Telkom sales consultant that this number “belongs to someone else” and that only they can do a SIM swap — otherwise I must wait 3 months for it to be considered inactive and maybe assigned back to me.

That’s it. No attempt to verify my identity. No questions asked. No check of my recharge history (I recharge daily, and have for months). No process to investigate if the current “owner” has ever even used the number. Just: “Get a new number.”

How is this acceptable?

I’ve recommended Telkom to friends and family for years. I used to be a loyal customer. Today, I regret every word of praise I ever gave.

I don’t care if I sound like the “worst person” by badmouthing Telkom — maybe it won’t make a difference now, but others deserve to be warned.

Do better, Telkom. People’s lives depend on their numbers.