subject: Ofcom's review of 0871 numbers [print this page] There have been some regulatory changes as a result of Ofcom's review of the 0871 number range. Any business that considers purchasing an 0871 number must be aware of these regulatory changes before they make the final decision to purchase.
In Feb 2009, Ofcom had published its review of the 087 number range. It contained some measures to improve customer protection and pricing transparency. Ofcom has decided that all 087 numbers other than the 0871 range will be formally recognised as premium rate numbers. This will directly put them under the purview of the premium rate regulator called PhonepayPlus.
PhonepayPlus gave 0871 service providers a six month implementation time frame to allow smooth transition of existing numbers to the premium rate regulations and the PhonepayPlus Code of Practice. It was required that all service providers ensure compliance by August 2009.
PhonepayPlus, in an attempt to increase pricing transparency, requires companies to be very clear on the written and verbal communication that it provides customers. All written communication and promotional material where the 0871 number is advertised must clearly, unambiguously state the cost of using the service. The written text must also be easily legible, straightforward and prominently presented. It is mandatory that all new and existing 0871 customers provide the compliance team with the promotional material before publication. The material may be advertised only after PhonepayPlus reviews and approves the wording.
When the customer calls the 0871 number, before the call is connected and the customer is charged, the verbal pricing information must be played to the customer. The spoken information must be audible and easily discernible. Messages should also be straightforward, clearly worded and unambiguous. Advanced call management features such as custom announcement messages can easily fulfil this requirement of PhonepayPlus.
With the custom announcement feature, all you need to do is record an audio file that clearly mentions the call charges and upload the file. Use professional voice over services to ensure that the message is crisp, clear and unambiguous.
There are many telecommunication companies such as Numbertalk that offer sophisticated call management facilities that allow you to record custom greeting messages that can be played to customers when they call the bsuiness. They are available with all number ranges such as 0871 numbers, 0844 numbers, 0845 numbers, 0800 numbers, 03 numbers, premium rate numbers, freephone numbers etc. To know more, visit the Numbertalk website.
Ofcom's review of 0871 numbers
By: Kieron James
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