Which? Slams Big Broadband Firms Over Price Hikes
Consumer watchdog Which? has slammed major broadband and mobile giants – BT, EE, O2, Virgin Media, and Vodafone – over planned mid-contract price rises due in April 2024. In a full-page national newspaper advert, Which? called these increases “unfair and unpredictable,” warning customers could be left with no way out.
Ofcom Bans Delayed, Price Hikes Still Loom
The call comes as Ofcom recently proposed banning inflation-linked price hikes mid-contract for causing “substantial consumer harm.” But the ban won’t kick in before April’s expected wave of price jumps. That means millions of customers face a hefty bill hike just as the cost of living crisis worsens.
Price Hikes Could Cost Customers Millions
- Some customers saw increases as high as 17% last year
- Which? estimates telecoms could rake in over £400 million from April hikes alone
- Consumers demand clearer, upfront pricing when signing contracts
“Millions of people face price rises they could never have predicted when they signed broadband or mobile contracts and may struggle to afford,” said Rocio Concha, Director of Policy and Advocacy at Which?.
Which? Urges Telecom Firms to #CallItOut
In the open letter, Which? urges providers to scrap mid-contract hikes and adopt fairer, more predictable pricing. With the next Consumer Prices Index due on January 17, anxious customers are hoping telecom bosses listen.
Which? has launched a petition at which.co.uk/CallItOut and is rallying support on social media with the hashtag #CallItOut. The message is clear: no more nasty surprises mid-contract.
