Aussie consumer rights body warns against mobile content

Consumers should approach premium mobile content services like ringtones, wallpapers and information resources with caution, warns Australia's Competition and Consumer Commission. "While these extras may offer variety and entertainment for some consumers, they are also the subject of ongoing complaints," said ACCC chairman Graeme Samuel. "This has led the ACCC to turn its attention to the advertising practices in the industry." The ACCC has already instituted legal proceedings against content provider TMG Asia Pacific, alleging false, misleading and deceptive conduct after claiming the firm failed to adequately disclose the costs and terms associated with its "Text and Win" mobile services. According to the ACCC, many consumers have reported they were not fully aware of the costs of the services until they received their first bill or discovered they had used up their prepaid credit. In late 2006, Australia introduced a Mobile Premium Services Industry Scheme to provide guidance in advertising practices and a complaints handling process--the ACCC notes the policy is currently under review.

For more on the ACCC's mobile content investigation:
- read this Cellular-News article

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