The UK regulator Ofcom has announced proposals aimed at giving consumers clearer and more consistent information when signing up to new broadband deals.
Under the planned new guidance, broadband providers would only be able to use the terms ‘fibre’ and ‘full-fibre’ on their websites and in contracts if their network uses fibre-optic cables all the way from the exchange to the home. Customers would also be given a short, easy-to-understand description of the type of broadband network technology they are signing up to.
Research by the regulator has found that that only 46% of customers who reported being on full-fibre broadband were living in areas where it is actually available. A quarter lacked confidence in understanding the language and terminology used by providers.
“It is important that people are given useful and timely information to help them choose the right broadband service for them, so they can take advantage of new full-fibre networks as these become available. Without this, customers may be unable to find the right product for their needs,” the regulator said in a statement.
A consultation on the plans is open until May 3, 2023 and the regulator plans to make public its final decision later this year.
