UPTO xMB new proposals from OFCOM

The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) is the advertising industry body responsible for regulating the way in which Internet Service Providers (ISPs) advertise their products. The ASA have ruled that ISPs can advertise theoretical maximum speeds but stipulated that such advertisements must be accompanied by a caveats indicating that they are 'up to' speeds.

The Office of Communications (Ofcom), the independent regulator for the UK communications industry, is aware of concern about advertised headline broadband speeds against actual speeds delivered. Ofcom has expressed concern to the ASA, and is in discussion with industry and consumer organisations to look into the other options that might be available to provide greater clarity for consumers and reduce the possibility of them being misled.

Ofcom's work in the area will include new research on comparing quality across ISPs, which will add to existing sources such as recent Which? research. Ofcom will consider a range of possible measures, including different ways to improve the information available to consumers at point of sale and in advance of purchase decisions