Premium rate services ('PRS') typically offer some form of content, product or service that is charged to users' phone bills. They can offer information and entertainment services via fixed or mobile phone, fax, PC or interactive digital TV. Regulation of PRS is designed to ensure that consumers can use these services with confidence and have access to effective redress when they encounter problems.
On 29 April 2010, PhonepayPlus published a consultation on its draft Code of Practice ('the draft Code'). On the same day Ofcom published a consultation document, noting that Ofcom considered the draft Code met the legal tests for approval under the Act. Having carefully considered responses from stakeholders, Ofcom is satisfied that the criteria set out in the Act have been met and that it would be appropriate to approve, under section 121 of the Act, the final Code.
This statement sets out Ofcom's approval of a new PhonepayPlus Code of Practice (12th Edition) ('the final Code') for the regulation of PRS under section 121 of the Communications Act 2003 ('the Act').