Phone and broadband regulator Ofcom has published new proposals which would make it easier for households to switch providers.
Despite existing measures to guarantee the ability switch easily, Ofcom says its research shows customers continue to face issues when changing provider.
The body is proposing that the new provider become responsible for managing the switching process.
The new proposals are subject to a public consultation which can be accessed here.
Ofcom Chief Executive, Ed Richards said: “Smooth switching processes are essential to ensure that consumers can change providers with confidence. Many people think that the current systems are too difficult and unreliable which is why we have made it one of our priorities to tackle this problem.
“Ofcom has improved consumer information on broadband speeds and enhanced competition in the market but it is also essential that people are able to switch easily to exercise their choice.
“Today’s proposals are designed to make the process easier, more reliable and safe from slamming. We believe that the proposals would improve consumers’ experience of switching and ensure that they continue to benefit from competition.”
The regulator said the changes would also protect consumers from being switched without their knowledge or consent.
According to Ofcom figures, around half a million households had their landline or broadband services switched without their consent in the last year.
Under the new system, all changs of provider would be checked and verified by an independent third party.
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