What's the difference between a PAC and a MAC code?

When I bought a new phone I wanted to change my internet service provider (ISP) to take advantage of a better deal. But when I called T-Mobile to get my portable authorisation code (PAC) I am just given the run-around.

I thought this was illegal.
Jack Parson

When we read this email we were somewhat puzzled, as T-Mobile offers only mobile broadband, not fixed-line home services. If Mr Parson wanted to change his ISP he would need what is called a Migration Authorisation Code (MAC) and T-Mobile can’t give him this.

We emailed Mr Parson to get some clarification but he has not yet replied. So we will assume for now that he wants to switch his mobile phone operator

If you want to change mobile phone provider while retaining the number, a PAC (porting authorisation code) is required. Mr Parson should have been given a PAC by T-Mobile within a couple of hours at the most.

But there are possible contractual issues he needs to consider. If he bought the phone without a contract and he paid the full price for the handset from T-Mobile or another retailer he should have no worries.

If Mr Parson is still within contract then he is legally bound to honour the terms. He can change providers, but must pay T-Mobile for the remaining months left.

If he ‘bought’ the new phone as part of a contract with T-Mobile he can’t switch just to get a cheaper deal from another operator and hope to keep the phone. This is because whether a phone is sold as ‘free’ or is significantly cheaper as part of a package of minutes, texts and data, the handset is not free. 

The price of the phone is integrated into the price of any package the person picks and this contract must also be honoured. If Mr Parson is out of the initial contract period, he should call again to get his PAC.

If T-Mobile fails to provide it then he should report the matter to Ofcom.