How do I keep my number when switching to PJN Mobile?

Modified on Fri, 28 Aug at 10:50 AM

Overview

When you switch to PJN Mobile, you don't have to give up your current phone number. Number porting lets you bring your existing number with you — so your contacts, bank, and apps can still reach you on the same number you’ve always had.

PJN Mobile services run on the Cell C network, giving you reliable coverage and connectivity across South Africa.

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Keep Your SIM Details Private

Number porting is a legitimate service, but it can be misused. If someone ports your number without your permission, they can intercept your calls and messages — including banking OTPs. You are protected as long as you keep your SIM card and ICCID number private.

If you receive a porting confirmation you did not request, or your phone suddenly stops working — contact us immediately.

What You Need Before You Start

Have these three things ready before you begin:

1	Your new PJN Mobile SIM	Purchase and RICA your new PJN Mobile SIM card. Keep it aside — do not insert it into your phone until your port is complete.
2	Your ICCID number	This is the 19-digit number printed on the back of your new PJN Mobile SIM card. It starts with 8927077.
3	Your current SIM (active)	Keep your existing SIM (from MTN, Vodacom, Telkom, or Cell C) in your phone. You will use it to send the porting request.

How to Port Your Number - Step by Step

1	Buy and RICA your new SIM Purchase a PJN Mobile SIM and complete RICA registration. Keep the SIM aside — do not insert it into your phone yet.
2	Find your ICCID number Look at the back of your new PJN Mobile SIM card. Your ICCID is the 19-digit number starting with '8927077'. Write it down somewhere safe.
3	Send the porting SMS From your current number (the one you want to keep), send an SMS in the following format: PORTME [your ICCID] → Send to: 065 011 2233 Replace [your ICCID] with the 19-digit number from your new PJN Mobile SIM (Step 2).
4	Watch for confirmation messages Shortly after sending the request, you will receive two confirmation messages. This is normal — no action is needed from you at this stage.
5	Wait for the port to complete Your port typically completes within 24 hours. Porting requests are processed by the national system between 19:30 and 23:00 on weekdays — requests submitted over a weekend may only begin processing on the next weekday evening. Keep your old SIM active and in your phone while you wait.
6	Swap in your new SIM — you're done! Once your port is complete, your old SIM will stop working and you will receive a welcome message. Insert your new PJN Mobile SIM — you are ready to go! Dial *135# to top up and buy bundles.

Messages You Will Receive

These messages are sent to you automatically during the porting process. You do not need to reply to any of them.

Message 1 — Sent immediately after your port request

"Thank you for your port request to Pay Just Now Mobile. This may take up to 24 hours to complete. If you suspect fraud, please contact us"

Message 2 — Sent while your port is being processed

"Voicemail messages, benefits, unused credits or third-party services on your current network will end once you port. All costs incurred on either network are for your account."

Message 3 — Sent once your port is complete

"Welcome to Pay Just Now Mobile! Your cellular service has been ported successfully. Dial *135# to top up and buy bundles."

Key Things to Remember

Do not insert your new SIM early Only insert your new PJN Mobile SIM after the port is complete. Inserting it early may interfere with the process.	Send the SMS from your old number The PORTME SMS must be sent from your current number — the one you want to keep — not from your new PJN SIM.
Porting happens in the evening on weekdays The national porting system processes requests between 19:30 and 23:00 on weekdays. Weekend requests may be delayed.	Your old services won't carry over Voicemail, unused data or airtime, and third-party services on your old network will not transfer when you port.

Checking the Status of Your Port

If you have submitted a request and want to check its progress, contact our customer service team. Here is what to expect:

1	Have your mobile number and the date you sent the porting SMS ready.
2	Our agent will verify your identity, look up your request, and give you a status update.
3	If your port has been pending for more than 24 hours on a weekday, we will escalate it to our operations team and follow up with you within 24 hours.

Protecting Yourself from Porting Fraud

Porting fraud happens when someone uses your details to port your number without your knowledge. They can then intercept your calls and messages — including banking OTPs — to access your accounts. Here are the warning signs and what to do:

Warning Sign	What to Do
Your phone suddenly stops receiving calls or messages	If you recently submitted a porting request, this is normal — insert your new PJN Mobile SIM and your service will be restored. If you did not request a port, contact PJN Mobile and your bank immediately.
You receive a porting confirmation you did not request	Do not ignore this message. Contact PJN Mobile immediately via our Fraud Hotline to report and block the unauthorized request. Also alert your bank, as fraudsters often port numbers to intercept OTPs and access banking accounts.
Someone asks you for your ICCID or SIM card details	Never share your ICCID with anyone you did not approach yourself. PJN Mobile will never ask for your ICCID unprompted. If you have already shared it, contact our Fraud Hotline immediately so we can protect your account.
You are asked to port without sending the SMS yourself	Refuse and end the interaction immediately. A legitimate port can only be started by you, by sending the PORTME SMS from your own phone. No one else can or should initiate this on your behalf. Contact PJN Mobile to report the incident.

Need Help?

Please contact PJN Mobile Customer Support.