BT refunded £18 million to customers after Ofcom found it failed to share required contract details with over a million users. The regulator also fined BT £2.8 million and ordered donations to charities. The company apologised and pledged stronger compliance.
Ofcom is cracking down on scam calls that fake UK mobile numbers to deceive people. New rules aim to block spoofed calls from abroad, protecting users from fraud. Despite progress, scammers persist, so experts urge individuals to use call-blocking tools and stay alert to unknown numbers.
Ofcom has cut mobile spectrum fees by 26% in key bands, saving operators around £60 million annually. Its latest Mobile Matters report shows 5G now makes up 28% of connections, with EE leading in 5G users and Three offering top speeds.
The UK’s major mobile operators are challenging Ofcom’s proposed changes to spectrum annual license fees. Despite a proposed 21% reduction in fees for the 900MHz and 1800MHz spectrums, and a 12% increase for the 2100MHz band, operators argue the fees are still too high.
Ofcom’s bold proposal positions the UK as Europe’s pioneer in direct-to-device (D2D) satellite services, enhancing mobile connectivity by bypassing traditional equipment. Utilizing existing 4G and 5G spectrum, this approach promises to boost rural coverage and drive innovation.
Ofcom is accelerating the UK’s full-fibre broadband rollout, aiming for 96% coverage by 2027. With access rising from 25% in 2019 to nearly 70% today, the regulator seeks to maintain momentum. Industry leaders welcome the push for competition and investment, ensuring faster, more reliable internet and positioning the UK as a leader in digital connectivity.
Ofcom is now enforcing its new powers under the Online Safety Act, requiring platforms to police illegal content or face penalties. While the focus is on tackling child sexual abuse material, concerns arise over vague terminology like “illegal harms,” raising fears of creeping censorship.
Ofcom is consulting on the future use of the upper 6GHz spectrum, potentially allowing both mobile and Wi-Fi networks to share it. The proposal suggests immediate Wi-Fi access, with a possible split for mobile use by 2027.
The UK telecommunications regulator, Ofcom, has granted a crucial licence to Amazon Kuiper satellite constellation. This move aims to enhance satellite internet services across the UK, especially in rural areas.
In a landmark move for UK telecoms, Ofcom introduces regulations mandating clear pricing transparency for telecom services. No more unexpected mid-contract price hikes—providers must now clearly outline price changes.
