Topic: Ofcom to let new ISPs help customers switch

[Simon]

Ofcom is considering overhauling the process by which customers switch broadband providers, putting the onus on the new ISP to handle the move.

At the moment, when a customer wants to leave one broadband provider in favour of another, the losing side must supply a Migration Authorisation Code (MAC) to be handed to the new supplier.

Under such a system, 45% of broadband users think switching to a new provider is too much hassle, according to Ofcom. That's set to worsen as more customers move to bundled packages, the watchdog warned.

To make things easier, Ofcom is considering switching to a Gaining Provider Led (GPL) process, to put the onus on the new ISP - which has greater motivation to take care of customers. "The gaining provider has an incentive to ensure that the switching process is as smooth and easy as possible," said Ofcom.

Read more: http://www.pcpro.co.uk/news/broadband/361048/ofcom-to-let-new-isps-help-customers-switch

[Rik]

Here come the slammers!

[Simon]

You might have to explain that one. 

[Rik]

Slamming was the practice whereby telcos would transfer the line from BT without proper authorisation. A cooling off period was introduced which allowed the losing telco to check with the customer that they did, indeed, want to leave.

[Simon]

Thanks! 

[Clive]

I have to say that I found moving was surprisingly straightforward despite BT's best efforts to keep me by offering me a 104 kbs connection for £16 a month. 

[Rik]