Verizon outage concerns are once again making headlines as America’s largest wireless carrier faces mounting backlash over its controversial plan to delay automatic phone unlocking beyond 60 days. This heated issue comes at a time when many Verizon customers are already voicing frustration about unexpected Verizon outages affecting their daily communications and remote work reliability.
Why Verizon Is Under Fire Right Now
Recently, Verizon asked the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to scrap the rule that requires them to unlock customers’ phones automatically 60 days after purchase. Verizon argues this policy, in place since 2008, encourages fraud and phone trafficking — claims that consumer advocates strongly dispute. While the company insists that eliminating the rule would reduce fraud and allow them to offer cheaper phones and better deals, critics say the plan could hurt customers who are already dealing with Verizon outage problems and rising service costs.
Customers Say Phone Locking Feels Like a Lock-In
For millions of Verizon subscribers, the 60-day unlock rule represents freedom of choice. Once a phone is unlocked, they can easily switch to another carrier if they experience repeated Verizon outages or are dissatisfied with service quality. With recent reports showing that Verizon lost nearly 289,000 postpaid customers in Q1 2025 — its worst decline ever — many believe the company’s push to extend phone locking is an attempt to stop the subscriber exodus.
Consumer advocacy groups have joined the fight, urging the FCC to reject Verizon’s request. They argue that the proposed change would stifle competition, limit customer freedom, and make it harder for users to leverage new options like SpaceX’s Starlink Cellular network — especially when Verizon outages strike.
Real Users Share Outage Frustrations
Online forums and social media are flooded with complaints from frustrated users experiencing sporadic Verizon outages this year. Some blame these interruptions on network upgrades or increased demand. But when coupled with the threat of being stuck with locked devices, the outages are adding fuel to an already raging fire.
“I paid for this phone, so I should decide what carrier I use if there’s a Verizon outage,” said one disgruntled customer who submitted comments to the FCC. Another customer said that keeping phones locked longer restricts their ability to switch to backup carriers during extended Verizon outages or emergencies.
Verizon’s Response: Cheaper Phones, But at What Cost?
Verizon defends its proposal by claiming the 60-day unlock rule encourages scammers to traffic phones overseas before the time limit expires. The company argues that removing the rule would lower fraud costs and make cheaper devices possible for budget-conscious families. But critics counter that loyal customers shouldn’t have to sacrifice their freedom to switch networks — especially if Verizon outages continue to disrupt service.
What’s Next for Verizon Customers?
The FCC has not yet made a final decision, but the debate shows no signs of cooling down. Industry watchers predict that if Verizon’s request is approved, it could set a precedent for other major carriers to follow suit, making it harder for customers across the U.S. to switch providers when faced with unexpected Verizon outages or price hikes.
Meanwhile, consumers are urged to stay informed and share their opinions with the FCC while the rule change is under consideration. Many advocacy groups have launched petitions, urging Americans to protect their right to easily switch carriers in the face of poor network performance and Verizon outage incidents.
