Pac code on new PAYG sim - no credit

[Sh500]

I have ported my phone number to an o2 PAYG SIM only to realise the signal in my area is extremely poor 0 to 1 bar.

The only option I can see is to move again to another provider. But o2 say I can only receive a PAC via text message. I do not want to waste £10 simply to send a message to move elsewhere.

Does anyone know why they cannot simply provide the PAC over the phone?

NB: I am able to receive texts and calls.

[MI5]

@Sh500 

Try calling customer service.

http://www.o2.co.uk/contactus

0344 8090222 from any phone.

[Sh500]

I have done this and my original message here is what they have said, ie you need to top up and send a text message to receive a code.

[MI5]

@Sh500 

That is not correct.

From our community guide here Guide: How to get your PAC [June 2021 Update] 

1. Pay as You Go Customers must call 4445. If you don't have any credit, call fom a landline or borrowed mobile on  0344 8090222 or 07860 980 202 (no other option to use Chat).

[Sh500]

I believe that may apply if you have already topped up at least once on the SIM and made an active call/text? My sim is brand and never been topped up.

I requested my call be escalated, but the o2 CS said 'they have similar requests and it would just be easier for me just to top up'.

For me it's the principle of it, the o2 service is not usable in my area, so I am having to top up £10 to send a 10p text and moving to another provider anyway.

[madasaf1sh]

@Sh500

You can get a PAC code over the phone as well as by text.

These are the rules set out by OFCOM, so o2 cant refuse to give you a code.

I would try again, im afraid to say..

[MI5]

@Sh500 

I have had a PAC in the past without topping up a sim card.

O2 cannot refuse you a PAC.

[Sh500]

I have called up twice already and their response was very similar in both cases. The second one gave me some long winded BS reason.

Are their any o2 employees on this forum who can escalate this for me? I feel I'll just get the same response if I call CS again.

[MI5]

@O2Daniel ?

[O2Daniel]

Thanks for the tag @MI5 

@Sh500 i will private message you to discuss this further.