Mobile phone users in Azerbaijan have voiced growing frustration over the sudden deactivation and deletion of inactive numbers by local operators without prior notification.
Many describe the practice as an invasion of privacy, raising serious concerns about data security and digital identity risks.
In today’s digital ecosystem, phone numbers are tied to essential services – from banking apps and social media accounts to biometric and two-factor authentication systems. Losing access to a number without warning can expose users to identity theft or unauthorized access, as linked accounts may remain active even after reassignment of the number to another person.
A survey conducted by Baku TV among Baku residents revealed widespread dissatisfaction.
“Why should someone else be able to see my personal information? Operators must send advance SMS notifications so people can take action,” said one respondent.
In response, representatives of mobile operators emphasized that user account management and app-level security fall outside their direct responsibility. They advised subscribers to contact service providers directly for issues related to data protection or account recovery.
Another operator explained the contractual framework: if a prepaid account remains inactive for 180 days, the number is blocked for both incoming and outgoing calls. If it is not reactivated within the next 90 days, the number may be reassigned and resold. The company added that multiple SMS reminders are sent to subscribers before termination.
However, digital privacy experts warn that such policies need clearer consumer safeguards. In a world where a phone number has become a core element of personal identification, revoking it without explicit consent can lead to privacy breaches and fraud.
