The rogue dialler is installed on the computer without the
customer's knowledge, usually when they open a spam email or visit
a website where the software is hidden.
Existing Premium Rate Services regulation applies to diallers
using 09 premium rate or international numbers – but some numbers
escape the rules, leaving consumers exposed.
Ofcom is proposing to extend the requirements to enable ICSTIS,
the premium rate regulator, to take action against any rogue
dialler irrespective of the telephone number used or the call
charges involved. This change would include rogue diallers using
087 or 070 numbers, for example.
Under the Communications Act 2003, Ofcom is responsible for
setting conditions for the regulation of premium rate services and
for approving the ICSTIS Code of Practice. ICSTIS is responsible
for administering the Code of Practice, and for enforcing
compliance by all relevant service providers.
The closing date for responses is 22 December 2005.
