New Ofcom rules for 0870 telephone numbers

Ofcom has set out new rules to encourage communications providers to include 0870 calls to in call bundles and to stop charging higher prices.

Under Ofcom’s new rules, communications providers that want to continue charging for 0870 calls at rates above those for geographic numbers will now be bound by strict rules about how prices are publicised on websites and in promotional material at point of sale.

Communications providers will be responsible for making sure their customers know how much they will be charged for calling an 0870 number. They will not be allowed to advertise 0870 numbers as "national rate" unless they are charging at geographic rates. If they do not comply with these rules, they could be subject to enforcement action including possible fines.

Currently 0870 calls are priced at levels that enable businesses and organisations to share the revenue generated by per-minute call charges. Ofcom's new rules would effectively end revenue sharing on 0870 numbers.

The new regulations come into effect August 1.

If you are a BRICK | customer and want to change your advertised telephone number. Please access your "Company Profile" module via your control centre and simply change your telephone number. This will change your default telephone number wherever it appears throughout your website.