13 March 2007
Research from the price comparison and switching website uSwitch.com has revealed that 71% of customers believe they have an unlimited broadband connection, putting 9 million subscribers at risk of exceeding their 'fair usage' limit.
Problems arise when broadband providers offer "unlimited" broadband within a 'fair usage policy', but neglect to tell their subscribers where the usage limit is - meaning that consumers looking to take advantage of the arrival of new web content and on-demand TV could be at risk of being cut off altogether.
Concerns were raised when a new study by uSwitch.com showed that despite all of the leading broadband providers claiming to offer their customers an "unlimited" broadband service, each one would be prepared to restrict, suspend or terminate the service of customers who used their service "to excess".
What is worse, some of the providers said that they would be prepared to do so without giving prior notice to their customers.
Steve Weller, Head of Communications Services at independent price comparison and switching service uSwitch.com, said: "Quite simply, broadband companies should not be allowed to advertise an unlimited broadband service when, in reality, a limit exists."
To help consumers, uSwitch.com has launched a Usage Barometer on its website to help broadband users understand the level of download limit or 'cap' that they require. They can identify how they spend their time online via a series of sliding bars.
They will then be told whether they are a 'light', 'mid' or 'heavy' user and will be advised of the download level they will require for their broadband service. Users can then click through to see a list of the best deals tailored to their usage level.
"Our advice to consumers is to enjoy what's out there but make sure that their broadband is set up to cope with the demands they are placing on it at present and also in the future," concluded Mr Weller.
© 2008 Adfero Ltd
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