Riding the St. Petersburg metro often brings with it the desire to stay connected, read the news, or watch videos while underground. Many passengers automatically connect to the network. WiFi_Metro, without realizing that this requires a paid subscription. Users often discover charges only when viewing their billing statement or receiving SMS notifications from their operator. This happens because logging into the network often automatically activates the service unless you choose a free plan with ads.
If you accidentally activated the option or just want to stop paying for internet in the subway, you need to perform a number of steps to deactivation of the serviceThe deactivation process depends on your mobile operator, as it acts as an intermediary between the user and the provider. WiFi MetroIn this article, we'll cover all the options in detail, from USSD commands to calling support, so you can easily manage your expenses.
It's worth noting that access terms and conditions may change, and personal account interfaces may be updated. Therefore, before disconnecting, it's always a good idea to check your current rates in your operator's app or on the provider's official website. This will help avoid misunderstandings and ensure you're disconnecting the exact rate that was active on your number.
What is Metro WiFi and how does the subscription work?
Service WiFi Metro is a commercial internet access service in subway tunnels and stations. The telecom operator in this case is often Megaphone, which provides the infrastructure for data transfer. The operating principle is simple: the user connects to an open network, authenticates, and gains access to global network resources for a specified period or traffic volume.
There are two main types of access: free (with ads and time or speed limits) and paid (subscription). A paid subscription is usually activated automatically upon first login, unless the user explicitly selects the free option, or at the end of the trial period. Automatic renewal — This is standard practice for such services, which allows you to use the Internet without re-authorization, but requires vigilance from the subscriber.
It's important to understand the difference between a regular cellular connection and a Wi-Fi connection. Even if you have mobile data enabled, your phone may switch to WiFi_Metro Provided there's a stable signal, using funds from your balance according to the subscription terms. This is especially true for plans with unlimited social media data, where access to other resources via Wi-Fi may be charged separately.
⚠️ Note: Automatic subscription activation often occurs when you reconnect to the network after your free session expires. Always carefully read any pop-up windows when logging into social networks.
Methods for disabling the service via USSD commands
The fastest and most reliable way to cancel a paid service is to use USSD requests. These commands work even without internet access, as they are transmitted directly to the mobile operator's network. For subscribers Megaphone, which are the main partners of the service in St. Petersburg, are provided with special codes.
To cancel your subscription, you need to enter a special code on your phone keypad. This is usually a combination of numbers and symbols, for example, *105*0053# or *105*1121#, however, the exact code may depend on your specific tariff plan and region. After dialing the command and calling, a menu or message will appear on the screen indicating the service has been successfully disconnected.
If you don't remember the exact code or the standard combinations don't work, you can use the universal service management menu. To do this, dial *105# and follow the on-screen instructions, selecting items related to subscriptions or additional services. In the list of active options, find WiFi Metro and select the "Disable" action.
☑️ Check before disconnecting
After successfully completing the command, you should receive an SMS notification that the service has been deactivated. Keep this message until the end of your billing period to ensure you have proof of the deactivation time in case of dispute. If the command fails, check whether the short message service is blocked by your carrier.
Cancelling a subscription through your personal account and the app
Modern mobile apps from telecom operators offer a user-friendly graphical interface for managing services. This allows for visual monitoring of all active subscriptions and avoids errors when entering commands. For users Megaphone The main tool is the Megafon application or personal account on the website.
Once you've logged into the app, go to the "Services" or "My Subscriptions" section. This displays a full list of all active options, including entertainment services and Wi-Fi access. Find the line in the list. WiFi Metro or "Unlimited Internet in the Metro." Click on it to expand the details and select "Disable" or "Delete."
The advantage of this method is that you can immediately see the service cost and the date of the next charge. Additionally, the app often has an "Auto-Disconnect" feature, which allows you to set a notification or automatically cancel the service after a certain time. This is useful if you only use internet on the subway occasionally.
What to do if there is no power off button?
If there's no deactivation button in the app, the service may be part of a bundled plan. In this case, you should contact support chat or try deactivating it via USSD commands. Also check the "Archived Services" section.
The app interface may be updated, and the menu items' layout may change. If you can't find the section you need, search within the app for "WiFi" or "Metro." The system will automatically suggest the appropriate settings.
Managing your subscription via SMS commands
Another effective method for monitoring subscriptions is using SMS notifications. Operators often offer the ability to manage services by sending text messages to short codes. This is convenient if USSD codes are not processed by the network for some reason.
To manage your subscription WiFi Metro a short number is usually used 5050 or a similar one specified in the tariff terms. The body of the message must include a keyword, for example, OFF or STOP, possibly with the addition of a service code. The exact syntax command can be found by sending the word INFO.
After sending the SMS, you will receive a reply confirming the service status. If the deactivation was successful, you will receive a notification in response informing you that your subscription has been terminated.
| Management method | Command / Action | Result |
|---|---|---|
| USSD request | *105*0053# |
Instant shutdown menu |
| Personal account | Subscriptions section → Disable | Visual confirmation |
| SMS command | Text "OFF" on 5050 | Reply SMS about success |
| Call for support | Set 0500 | Disconnection by operator |
Contact the operator and get a refund
If automated methods don't help, or you find charges you believe are erroneous, the best option is to contact customer support. For subscribers Megaphone this is a call to a number 0500 from mobile or 8 800 550 05 00 From any phone. The operator will check your connection history and help you deactivate the service.
If funds were debited in error or the service was not provided as expected (for example, the internet was down and payment was processed), you have the right to request a refund. To do so, submit a request in your personal account or via chat with an operator, specifying the dates and amounts of the disputed transactions. Refund usually made to the mobile phone balance within a few days.
When speaking with an operator, be prepared to provide your passport information for identification, as this is a security requirement. It's also helpful to have your phone model and operating system version handy if the issue is technical or related to device settings.
⚠️ Please note: There is a limited time limit for refunds for poorly rendered services. Please submit your claim as soon as possible, ideally on the day you discovered the charge or within 30 days.
Setting up your smartphone to prevent automatic connections
To avoid accidental connections in the future, it is recommended to change the Wi-Fi settings on your smartphone. Modern operating systems Android And iOS have features that can hinder or, conversely, assist this process. For example, the "Auto-Connect" feature is often enabled by default for all saved networks.
Go to Wi-Fi settings and find the network in the list. WiFi_Metro (or similar name) and tap the information icon (gear or letter "i"). In the menu that opens, find the "Auto-connect" toggle and turn it off. Now your phone will see the network but won't connect to it without your explicit permission.
It's also worth paying attention to the "Private Wi-Fi Address" feature in iOS and similar features in Android. They change the device's MAC address each time it connects, which can be interpreted by the authentication system as a new user signing in and prompting you to reactivate your subscription. For stable operation on public networks, it's sometimes better to use the device's real MAC address if your security settings allow it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to get a refund for past months of subscription?
Refunds for periods when you actually used the service are usually impossible. Refunds are only possible in the event of a technical error, double-charge, or if the service was not working and funds were debited. In such cases, you must file a complaint with the operator.
Will my subscription be canceled automatically if I change my carrier?
No, the subscription is linked to your phone number, not directly to your SIM card. If you switch to another carrier while maintaining your number (MNP), the service may be lost or continue to be charged according to the old rules, which will cause billing issues. It's best to cancel all paid subscriptions before switching.
Is there a fee to access the login page?
No, accessing the captive portal is always free and doesn't require internet access. The operator doesn't charge for traffic used to load the subscription purchase page. You're only charged after service activation is confirmed.
How do I know if my subscription is currently active?
The easiest way to check this is via a USSD request. *105# Or in the operator's app, in the "My Services" section. An active subscription may also be indicated by regularly received SMS messages informing you of charges or remaining data.