Ofcom has introduced new regulations mandating that internet service providers (ISPs) clearly state whether their broadband uses full-fibre, part-fibre, copper, or cable networks. This aims to eliminate confusion among consumers by providing transparent information on network technologies. By making informed comparisons, customers can better choose the right internet services.
Major UK business groups are urging telecoms regulator Ofcom to extend the automatic compensation scheme for broadband outages to encompass all businesses. This demand highlights frustrations over unreliable broadband services impacting productivity and economic growth. Existing compensation covers only domestic-grade services, leaving many businesses without recourse for connectivity issues.
Ofcom, the UK’s communications regulator, introduces robust measures to combat scam calls from abroad. By mandating that phone companies block calls with fake UK landline numbers, Ofcom aims to curb ‘spoofing’ and protect consumers. With BT successfully blocking up to one million calls daily, the initiative promises enhanced public safety and fewer scam calls.
BT faces a £17.5 million fine from Ofcom after a network fault disrupted 14,000 emergency calls for over 11 hours. This outage highlights the necessity for robust VoIP systems in emergency services.
In an effort to simplify broadband service switching for UK residents, the telecommunications regulator Ofcom has introduced new rules effective from 12 September 2024. To support this initiative, iconectiv UK Limited announced its registration as a Managed Access Provider (MAP) with The One Touch Switching Company (TOTSCo). This move will provide UK Communications Providers (CPs) with the necessary flexibility to comply with the evolving residential broadband market.
Ofcom has fined BT £2.8 million after its subsidiaries, EE and Plusnet, failed to adhere to consumer protection regulations. The UK regulator’s investigation revealed that both companies neglected to provide clear contract details to numerous customers before they signed up for services.
The UK’s telecommunications regulator, Ofcom, is advancing plans to facilitate shared access to the highly sought-after upper 6 GHz band, proposing two primary frameworks to balance the needs of both mobile and Wi-Fi providers. The first proposed approach, known as variable spectrum split, would allow both mobile and Wi-Fi services to use portions of the spectrum not occupied by the other.
Ofcom’s Cristina Luna-Esteban has recently criticized renowned UK ISPs including BT, Sky, TalkTalk, and VMO2, regarding delays in finalizing a launch date for the One Touch Switching (OTS) system. This creates a dilemma, as extended delays restrict consumers from accessing easy and simplified ISP switching. OTS, initiated by Ofcom to streamline provider switches, experiences technical complexities pushing its initial deadline, causing a concern echoed by Ofcom’s Lindsey Fussell.
In the United Kingdom, a significant transition is underway as the nation shifts from traditional analogue landline services to modern, IP-based digital systems. This change, mirroring a global trend towards digital communication solutions, aims to enhance service quality for the majority of consumers. However, it has raised concerns for certain vulnerable groups who depend on the older technology and may face challenges, particularly during power outages, which could impact their ability to reach emergency services.
Ofcom, the UK’s telecom regulator, wields new measures to curb fraudulent calls and misuse of Calling Line Identification data internationally. This initiative directly targets scammers exploiting loopholes to feign UK numbers. While exceptions exist for legitimate overseas use, maintaining the balance without obstructing genuine calls is an imperative yet challenging pursuit.
