ComReg Consumer News Q2 2021
During the second quarter of 2021 (April to June) the consumer news included the following:
Recent updates to
consumer advice and information included
Covid-19 Consumer Information page and a warning from the National Cyber-Security Centre (NCSC) in relation to a
scam message sent through a mobile phone message. We also
reminded consumers to be vigilant and to be wary of returning calls to any unknown numbers.
Our
compliance work resulted in a notification being issued to
Virgin Media of a finding of non-compliance under its obligations with the Universal Service Regulations.
ComReg’s
consumer tools and resources were highlighted including the
Outdoor Mobile Coverage Map, where you can check predicted 2G, 3G and 4G outdoor mobile coverage and ComReg’s Compare tool which can be used when considering
unlimited data plans and
mobile plans. We reminded consumers that our
Consumer Care team can provide you with information if you are experiencing issues with your communications service.
In respect of
research and reports the consumer news highlighted a
study on the Impact of Covid-19 on Home Broadband and Mobile Service Usage, the
Q1 2021 Consumer line statistics report and a report on the parcel delivery sector in Ireland.
And finally, we published a call for input seeking your views on the
future of postal regulation with a deadline for all responses due by Friday 20th August.
ComReg Consumer News Q1 2021
During the first quarter of 2021 (January to March), the consumer news included the following:
Recent updates to
consumer advice and information was a key theme in Q1 2021 highlighting how to block and unsubscribe from
mobile premium rate services if you do not require them and information relating to mobile roaming and postal services
in light of Brexit.
Fraudulent SMS text messages sent to consumers about the delivery of a packet or parcel in order to trick people also known
as Smishing, or SMS phishing, as well as
fraudulent emails purporting to come from An Post were also a key communication along with details of a
data breach at Fastway Couriers.
ComReg’s
consumer tools and resources were highlighted to ensure if consumers are looking for mobile unlimited data plans for
remote school or college know to use Compare to find
unlimited data plans and
mobile data plans. In addition the role of the Consumer Care team was explained and in particular how we
support the vulnerable, elderly & consumers with disabilities who may experience difficulties with their mobile, home phone or broadband provider.
In respect of
research and reports the consumer news highlighted ComReg’s study on the impact of
Covid-19 on Home Broadband and Mobile Service Usage, the
Q4 2020 Consumer Line Statistics Report and the results of the latest
Connectivity Survey that shared key findings about the importance of broadband to consumers and their satisfaction and switching experiences. We also published the results of its Digital Services & Online Safety survey for
Safer Internet Day
And finally our
compliance work resulting in 26,000 Three PRS customers being refunded in total €824,765 was shared at
Three of a finding of non-compliance.
