Telcos Told To Withdraw Misleading Tariff Ads | TechTree.com

Telcos Told To Withdraw Misleading Tariff Ads

TRAI takes a stern stance after receiving complaints from consumers.

 

After pulling up telcos over irregularities in the implementation of MNP (Mobile Number Portability), the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has now directed operators to withdraw misleading tariff ads. It decided to issue the order after receiving complaints from several consumers. The issue was then discussed at several open houses with the relevant stakeholders. Telcos have been asked to make sure that their advertisements disclose complete, unambiguous information. It will also be mandatory to publish them in vernacular languages where applicable. Telcos have been given one month to comply, with immediate effect.

Consumers had earlier filed complaints with the regulatory authority stating that the ads were "confusing, complex, and difficult to understand, and also the titles and various charging components of number of tariff plans were non-transparent". TRAI has ruled that an advertisement will be deemed "misleading" if it induces the consumer to subscribe to a tariff plan that he \ she would not have otherwise opted for, or if it contains an untrue statement. Ads that omit a material fact that can influence the subscriber's decision to opt for the plan, or fail to disclose plan limitations and restrictions, will also be considered misleading. Special tariff vouchers have also been included in the scope of this diktat.

Mobile service providers have further been asked to publish their website address and customer care details in all advertisements. They are also required to maintain a register that includes a specimen of every tariff-related ad issued. Additionally, it has been made mandatory to conduct internal audits to ensure compliance on these directives and report to TRAI on 15th  January and 15th July every year. With such a stern stance adopted by TRAI, consumers can now rest assured they have someone with authority on their side.


TAGS: Telecom, Government, Jayesh

 
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