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Home / Advice & Information / Premium Rate / About Premium Rate Services / Background information on Premium Rate Services

Background information on Premium Rate Services

This page contains:

  • Why do premium rate services exist?

  • Are premium rate services any good?

  • Are premium rate services a scam?

  • Should I worry about using premium rate services?

  • Do age limits apply to premium rate services?

Why do premium rate services exist?

Premium rate services provide companies with an easy and instant way for consumers to pay for a service or product using their phones. Services can work through calls or texts, it’s easy to use and it doesn’t involve lots of paperwork.

Are premium rate services any good?

If you get what you want from a premium rate service – premium rate services are good. If the premium rate service tells you the costs involved in using the service and what you can expect from the purchase – premium rate services are good.

Premium rate services all need to abide by ComReg’s Code of Practice. If a premium rate service breaches the Code of Practice, then ComReg will address the issues directly with the service provider.

As a consumer, you must remember that the key to your own protection is in your own hands. Know what you are signing up to, keep an eye on your bills and complain if you are treated unfairly. 

Are premium rate services a scam?

Just because premium rate services cost more doesn’t mean that they are a scam or that they are bad. Most premium rate services operate without causing consumer harm.

Should I worry about using premium rate services?

The vast majority of premium rate services are run responsibly and don’t cause problems. It is important to stay in control by making sure you know exactly how the premium rate service works, how much you will pay and what you will get.

Do age limits apply to premium rate services?

Some premium rate services are not intended for children. If you try to order a service that is not intended for children (i.e. for those who are over 18 years of age) you will be asked to confirm your age or to provide proof that you are over 18 years of age in order to receive the service. If you win a prize in a competition or quiz for over 18s, then you will not be able to claim your prize if you are under 18.

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