By james art 
Thousands of Durham residents are at risk of losing their mobile data as the O2 will start excluding 3G services.
Durham was chosen for the first place in the United Kingdom to get rid of 3G on all mobile devices since early April.
This move, which aims to modernize the network and improve its 4G and 5G services, can leave those with older devices that need upgrade.
O2 said they were contacting a small number of customers who still rely on 3G, warning them that their current devices would no longer support mobile data.
Vulnerable customers are offered free of charge, ready for a 4G device, while others have to upgrade to the approach, or to face loss of internet access on their phones when Wi-Fi is turned off.
The exclusion is part of a national 3G termination plan, which is now less than 3% of network data.
This move was agreed by the government and all mobile operators in the UK in 2021.
However, some claim online that many more adult and vulnerable residents may struggle to adapt.
Switching to Durham will serve as a test case for stopping the UK, which should be completed by the end of 2025.
Virgin Media O2 says it works with consumer groups and charity organizations, such as the Good Things Foundation, to support those affected.
Customers who do not upgrade up to a 4G or 5G device will still be able to make voice calls and send text messages through the 2G network, but will lose all access to mobile data.
Virtual networking users, such as Tesco Mobile and Giffgaff, will also be affected and connected by their respective suppliers.
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Jeanie York, Chief Technology Director of Virgin Media O2, said: “Excluding 3G will be an important stage in the evolution of our network, which will allow us to focus our attention and investment on faster and more reliable 4G and 5G networks which will provide enhanced services to our customers.
“Starting in only one place and putting careful monitoring, we will minimize the interruption of customers and guarantee the success of this basic modernization program.
“While the bigger part of our customers already have a 4G or 5G device and will not be affected, our priority is to provide support for those who need it. That is why we turn directly to customers who do not have a 4G or 5G-finished device and call those we know are vulnerable to help them prepare. “