WorldCom Transfers 2 Million Wireless Customers

The bankrupt WorldCom has sold its wireless customer base to other cellular networks in the USA. AT&T Wireless, Verizon Wireless, Alltel and an un-named fourth network all get parts of the customer base. WorldCom specifically stated that Cingular is not the fourth network, and is still in discussions over transfering the customers it resold on behalf of Cingular. WorldCom had a subscriber base of just over 2 million customers but the division was still operating at a loss.

WorldCom said that it received a negligible payment for its customer base, but will will save US$700 million a year from shutting down the loss making division. It signed the agreements before filing for bankruptcy, so the sale is not subject to scrutiny by the bankruptcy court.

Customers are expected to be able to retain their phone numbers when transferring to their new network.'"

Posted to the site on 30th July 2002