Three and other UK mobile networks hit by outage

The Three UK network is currently facing significant disruptions, with thousands of users unable to make voice calls. We have also seen reports from users who are on other networks, but this maybe users who are trying to contact users on the Three network.

The outage, which is also impacting mobile networks that operate as Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) using the Three network infrastructure such as Smarty and ID Mobile, was initially reported on Downdetector at approximately 1:05 PM GMT on January 23rd 2025.

Initially Three said that 999 calls would still work, but users on social media report they are not working for some users. A Three spokesperson said “We are aware of a number of reports that customers have not been able to connect to 999 calls. We are taking this very seriously and are investigating this urgently and we apologise if anyone has been unable to successfully contact emergency services. Call data from the emergency services shows that the majority of 999 calls being placed via our network are being connected via other networks.”

At the time of publication thousands of Three customers have reported problems via Down detector, and the figure continues to rise.

Please see our updated post here – Three say connectivity is now restored (24-01-2025)

Three UK have confirmed that they are aware of the network problems and are currently investigating.

We're aware of an issue affecting a small percentage of voice services, our team are working hard to fix this as soon as possible. We're really sorry for any inconvenience caused. Data services and 999 calls are unaffected, please bear with us.

— Three UK (@ThreeUK) January 23, 2025