Ofcom Finds UK Broadband Speeds Misrepresented

British broadband customers still aren’t receiving what they think they pay for as mystery shopper research from Ofcom has found.

The independent regulator’s research found that 85 per cent of potential customers were given a maximum speed estimate before they signed up, but that three-quarters of them were not told that their real-life speed would be slower.

Many providers were also cagey about giving out speed details unless specifically asked, with 42 per cent of mystery shoppers having to prompt ISP sales reps for the information.

The research also found that ISPs provided very wide broadband speed figures, and even estimated completely different speeds for the same line.

Ofcom has said this may be due to the separate testing methods used by ISPs, which raises the question as to why there isn’t a standardised measure across the board.

“We will work with the internet service providers to ensure consumers receive the best quality information and amend the existing code accordingly,” said Ed Richards, Ofcom chief executive in a statement.

“We will continue to monitor and assess performance against the code in the coming months.”

Ofcom will change its code of practice within the next few months to persuade ISPs to provide more consistent and accurate information.

If the regulator is not able to reach an agreement with ISPs it has said it will consider legislation to make accurate speed disclosure mandatory.

Have you checked the speed of your broadband? Leave us a comment and let us know.

Via Ofcom

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