Press releases
15 February 2007
Make the Right Call When Buying A Mobile Phone
Inbuilt cameras, Mp3 player functions, pay-as-you-go, contract… it is easy to become confused by all the options on offer when you’re in the market for a new mobile phone.
Last year, mobile phones topped the list of complaints to Consumer Direct London, the capital’s consumer advice line. In total, the service received over 5000 complaints about mobile contracts and handsets.
To help people avoid some of the problems, Consumer Direct is advising people to take their time before signing up to a deal and make sure they read the terms and conditions before signing up.
Amanda Elliott from Consumer Direct London warns that once the contract is signed it is legally binding and you are committed to using the network for the outlined period.
'There are so many different phones and deals on offer now that it’s easy to make the wrong choice under pressure,' Ms Elliott said.
'You can’t opt out of a contract if you simply change your mind, so make sure you know and understand what you’re getting yourself into.'
'Things to look out for include how long you’re under contract for, hidden call costs and the areas of coverage your service provider has.'
'If there is a fault with the handset, you should take it back to the shop where you bought it. You might be entitled to refund, replacement or repair depending on the length of time you’ve owned the phone.'
'Don’t forget that once you’ve chosen your deal and signed up to a contract, you still have consumer rights,' Ms Elliott added.
Consumer Direct advises anybody in the market for a new mobile phone to shop around and beware of deals that sound too good to be true.
Important points to remember
- Shop around – Before you buy, decide how much you afford. Include the cost of any additional payments such as insurance.
- Check the range of coverage with the Network Service Provider in your area.
- Read terms and conditions carefully before signing the contract as once it has been signed, it’s legally binding and you’re committed to using the network for the outlined period, at a certain tariff.
- You can not opt out of a contract - you have no rights should you simply change your mind.
- Make sure you know what is included in your price plan.
- Do not feel under pressure to sign the service agreement there and then.
- Once you’ve signed the contract and have the handset you must look after the phone in line with the instructions.
- If you have a problem with the network or SIM card contact the Network Service Provider. Check with the shop where you bought the phone if there is a problem with the handset.
- Don’t forget that once you’ve chosen your deal and signed up to a contract, you still have consumer rights.
Anyone needing further advice can contact Consumer Direct London on 08454 04 05 06
