Premium Rate Numbers Help

Questions & Answers

I have been charged for calls to a premium rate number what does this mean?

Premium rate services offer information and entertainment via phone, fax, PC (e-mail, Internet, bulletin board), mobile (SMS/WAP) or interactive digital TV. Services range from sports, voting and adult lines to competition, chat, Directory Enquiry and business information services, and currently vary in cost. The money paid for the call is shared between the telephone company carrying the service and the service provider providing the content.

A service provider is an individual, company or organisation that contracts directly with a Network Operator for premium rate numbers. The service provider is responsible for ensuring that the content and promotion of a service comply with the ICSTIS Code of Practice. This is the case even where the service provider is acting as a reseller or bureau providing the service on behalf of a client (information provider).

I have a number of 0909 calls appearing on my bill. I dont recall making these. What are they?

These may be caused by dialler software installed on your computer. We have published further details on these premium-rate dialers.

Is there an industry regulator for these premium rate companies?

Yes there is. Please go to www.icstis.org.uk. ICSTIS are the Independent Commission for Standards in Telephone Information Services. ICSTIS investigates complaints about the content and promotion of services involving the use of a telephone connection (including Internet or interactive TV) to make a premium rate call.