Ofcom rules on broadband switching

By

Providers will have to hand over customer details promptly.

Ofcom rules on broadband switching
Ofcom is introducing rules to make the process of switching broadband providers faster and more efficient.

From 14 February 2007 broadband providers will have to hand over a customer's Migration Authorisation Code (MAC) on request and free of charge.

In the past MACs were exchanged between ISPs as part of a voluntary code of practice but Ofcom has been getting an increasing number of complaints about tardiness.

"Increased competition in broadband has led to falling prices and a wide variety of services," said Claudio Pollack, director of consumer policy at Ofcom.

"These new rules are intended to ensure that switching is a quick and easy process for all."

Ofcom noted that some wholesale broadband providers had withheld MACs from retail providers if the two companies were in dispute. This will no longer be allowed under the new rules.

The rules come after research commissioned by the organisation found that a sizeable minority of broadband users had complaints about the speed of transferring between providers.
Got a news tip for our journalists? Share it with us anonymously here.
Copyright ©v3.co.uk
Tags:

Most Read Articles

NBN Co to "rationalise" some access technologies entirely

NBN Co to "rationalise" some access technologies entirely

Telstra to axe 550 roles including in enterprise business

Telstra to axe 550 roles including in enterprise business

Vocus receives government nod for TPG Telecom deal

Vocus receives government nod for TPG Telecom deal

Optus' first AI chief Samantha Lawson exits

Optus' first AI chief Samantha Lawson exits

Log In

  |  Forgot your password?