A third of broadband consumers "afraid" to switch provider

Communications watchdog Ofcom has been urged to review its rules on switching broadband providers after new research showed many consumers feel the process is too problematic.

According to online comparison site broadbandchoices, one in four broadband users are expected to want to change their ISP in 2008.

But a third of those who want to switch do not go through with it because they are worried about incurring charges, losing their connection or having to deal with the "headache" of setting up the transfer between two providers.

Now the site is calling on Ofcom to change its rules to ensure the new provider is responsible for the smooth transition of services.

Michael Phillips, product development director at BroadbandChoices, said: "There needs to be a radical shake-up of the switching procedures."

He added that the industry could learn from the energy sector, where he said 300,000 customers change suppliers every month.

Although fewer broadband customers switch each month (154,917), they experience "far more problems".

Ofcom is responsible for regulating all broadcast media in the UK including radio, television, telecommunications and the internet.