p2pnet - rss feed: New UK ISP ’switching’ rules
p2pnet.net news:- Some British broadband users should now find it a little easier to switch to new ISPs. As of February 14, people nearing the end of their contracts could demand a migration access code (MAC) from their old suppliers, says ZDNet UK.
“They can give the MAC to their new ISP, which should enable a seamless handover of service. The provision of MACs will become mandatory and must be made free of charge, according to new rules being imposed by Ofcom, the telecoms regulator.”
The new rules stop broadband firms charging customers for switching and try to remove other barriers to the process, says the BBC. “Net firms that put obstacles in the way of customers keen to switch could face heavy fines from regulator Ofcom.”
Breaching the new conditions could land broadband suppliers with a fine of up to 10% of their turnover.
Customers who couldn’t “extract” a MAC often found they lost their broadband service for up to two weeks while they changed, says ZDNet.
But, warned industry analyst Andrew Ferguson, “Some of the smaller providers may continue to not always play by the rules.”
MAC codes apply only to DSL providers who haven’t installed their own broadband equipment in BT’s local exchanges, says the story, adding, “MACs do not apply to NTL: Telewest, which recently rebranded as Virgin Media, or to wireless or satellite providers.
“Users moving home are not covered by MAC codes, and are likely to continue to face a loss of service until a couple of weeks after they move. ISPs are also permitted not to provide MAC codes to businesses of ten employees or more.”
Also See:
ZDNet UK - Broadband migration no longer a drag?, February 14, 2006
BBC - Broadband switching set to ease, February 13, 2006
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