When did vodafone start locking handsets?

Buzby

Vodafone rarely locked contract handsets - PAYG always were. However, there have been a number of users who discovered the handsets WERE locked, much to their surprise.

Vodafone sub-contract handset fulfilment and repairs to third party outfits indeed many handsets are supplied to the network with only bubble-wrap. It is the fulfilment house that box-up the handset add the Vodafone customisation (both firmware and box branding) and it is here the locking (however inadvertent) takes place.

As the rules have changed, you can request a free unlock if you find this had been done.

forgotmyname

Nope i tried on several occasions to get an unlock code and even went on to say the phones no use if its locked and that i will be cancelling the upgrade and contract where they pass me to retentions.

I got told they will sort the unlock code only to receive another email/text saying that they cannot unlock it at this time. several calls like this until i got a guy in retentions that credited me with £20 to get it unlocked at a small shop.