Broadband users warned over excess download charges

Thursday, 23 December 2010 12:00

Broadband users have been urged to check their service plans to ensure they do not incur "excess download" charges this Christmas.

According to research by Broadbandchoices.co.uk, 35 per cent of households with high-speed internet expect to watch more TV shows online over the festive period than they normally would.

However, 28 per cent of respondents had no idea how much data they downloaded each month, while 15 per cent were unaware of the limit on their service.

Another 15 per cent said they had been charged in the past for excessive use and 39 per cent admitted they never check their bill to see if they are being hit with fines.

Broadbandchoices.co.uk product director Michael Phillips said: "Christmas is already an expensive time of year, so the last thing consumers need is a hefty excess downloads charge being added on to their broadband bill."

He added it is "crucial" for consumers to check the small print on their contracts to ensure they are aware of usage limits.

Mr Phillips noted that even packages offering "unlimited" downloads will have some form of fair usage policy attached.

According to figures from Ofcom published in September, 71 per cent of British households and small businesses have a broadband connection.

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