Stricter rules to describe ‘fibre’ broadband

Ofcom has proposed new rules that force internet providers to use the words ‘fibre’ and ‘full-fibre’ only when referring to fibre-optic cables that stretch from the exchange all the way to the home.

Currently, providers can use the word ‘fibre’ to describe services that use fibre cables for only part of the network – such as fibre-to-the-cabinet (FTTC) connections.

Instead, Ofcom is suggesting that on websites and contracts providers should include a “short description of the underlying technology of the network delivering the broadband service”, using terms such as ‘fibre’, ‘cable’, ‘full-fibre’, ‘copper’ or ‘part-fibre’.

Selina Chadha, Ofcom’s Director of Connectivity, said that some of the jargon used by providers “can be unclear and inconsistent, meaning customers are left confused”.

Ofcom cited research showing that only 46 per cent of customers who said they were on full-fibre broadband were living in areas where it is actually available.

Chadha added that the new guidelines will make it easier for people “to take advantage of more reliable, and potentially higher speed technology, as it becomes available”.

The proposals cover how broadband services are described in “point of sale” information, such as in contracts and in stores.

But they don’t cover adverts nor how providers describe services on their own websites. Responsibility for these fall to the Advertising Standards Authority.

Ofcom will now consult on the proposals and publish a statement in Autumn 2023. Read more www.snipca. com/45390.