Customers of major US telecommunications firms like AT&T Inc., T-Mobile US Inc., and Verizon Communications Inc. are facing challenges connecting to their networks while abroad.
Verizon confirmed on Thursday that a “third-party communications provider” is encountering issues connecting US-based customers to voice and data services overseas. Richard Young, a Verizon spokesperson, stated that they are actively collaborating with their roaming provider to resolve the problem, with 70% of calls and data connections currently operational.
T-Mobile acknowledged being affected by the issue along with other operators and assured customers that they are working towards a solution. AT&T clarified that their network is operating normally but acknowledged disruptions for some international travelers due to issues with a roaming connectivity provider.
According to sources familiar with the matter, Syniverse Technologies is the third-party provider experiencing intermittent connectivity problems since June 26. Syniverse has acknowledged the issue and is working closely with network partners to resolve it.
Syniverse highlighted the challenge and expressed gratitude for customers’ patience as they address the problem. Mobile users, including public figures like actor Patrick Schwarzenegger and Archer Aviation Inc.’s chief commercial officer Nikhil Goel, have shared their concerns on social media platforms about the service disruption.
In instances like Nick Ponton’s experience in Seaham, UK, where he and his mother faced connectivity issues, customers have resorted to unconventional solutions like walking along highways due to the inability to use ride-hailing apps.
Maryland resident Bridget Arnold, whose daughter is studying abroad in Munich, expressed disappointment with Verizon’s communication about the issue, suggesting that proactive customer notification would be beneficial.
The situation underscores the importance for telecom providers to maintain robust communication and support for customers during service disruptions, especially those traveling internationally.
