If you don't use your O2 (backup) phone for a while is this standard?

[Anonymous]

1. You can't make or receive any calls?
2. You can't send or receive any texts?
3. Your number is reallocated to someone else?
4. O2 KEEP the not insignificant amounts of credit you had on the number/account and
5. They have the barefaced cheek to do all this without making ANY effort to contact you and return your credit?

I was absolutely gobsmacked to learn this from an O2 store this morning as being the likely reason why my phone won't work.

My neighbour has got a lovely caravan on his drive he's not used for a few months. If I take it without telling him will the 'O2 defence' stand up in court? Grateful if others can confirm whether they have ever had similar experience before I start some VERY angry correspondence with O2!

Thanks

[MI5 · Accepted solution]

It's all covered in the T&C's that you need to make a chargeable call at least once every 6 months to maintain your connection.
If it hasn't been disconnected for long they will reconnect you and give back your credit but if it has been too long you will have to have a new number.
Contact methods here http://www.o2.co.uk/contactus
and terms here http://www.o2.co.uk/termsandconditions

[MI5]

7. Our Rights to Bar or Disconnect Your Mobile Phone

7.1. If you do not carry out any chargeable activity at least once in any 6 month period your Mobile Phone will be disconnected and you will lose any remaining credits balance on your Account. If you wish to be re-connected after this time you will be given a new Mobile Phone number.
http://www.o2.co.uk/termsandconditions/mobile/on-pay-and-go-our-service-terms-are-worth-a-read