"Phone and broadband customers are falling foul of hidden costs in their contracts that can send their monthly bills soaring.
Telecommunications regulator Ofcom has launched a review into sneaky fees levied by operators following a series of complaints from disgruntled customers. However, many nasties will not be covered by this review.
The probe concerns concealed costs for services not directly associated with using your service such as higher charges for not paying by direct debit, late payment, having your service restored after suspension following late payment and exit fees.
For instance, Virgin Media charges £5 for a non-direct debit payment and Namesco will hit customers with a maximum £25 late-payment charge for internet use.
Ofcom insists its list is not exhaustive, and the regulator will look at other unfair fees if it deems it is necessary. "
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