Consumers should be careful over 'free' broadband accessories

A recent report shows that whilst many consumers think that they are getting something for nothing with their broadband package this is not always the case

Over recent years the world of broadband has become increasingly competitive, and this has prompted the rising number of Internet Service Provider to offer a range of incentives to consumers in order to try and increase their customer base and stay a step ahead of the competition. The freebies and incentives offered with broadband bundles and packages have become increasingly sophisticated these days, and when these offers come along they often attract many consumers.

However, some industry officials have warned that consumers need to be careful that they are not assuming that they are getting something for nothing when it fact they end up paying for the service or product that they receive with their broadband package. For example, with Carphone Warehouse consumers can get what they may think is a free laptop with certain contracts, but in the small print the contract states that the price “Includes £15 per month for laptop at 0% APR typical”.

Consumers also need to look out for special priced deals, as providers make a big fuss about the headline introductory price on these packages, making the advertisements eye catching and tempting for consumers. However, the standard price, which consumers will have to start paying after a specified period, is often hidden in the small print, and consumers need to ensure that they read up on the small print and find out exactly what they will be paying after the introductory period.

Other charges and fees that customers may not realise that they have to pay with so called freebies include laptop insurance cover and delivery charges, all of which can add up. Depending on what sort of package is being offered consumers should determine whether the contract offers value for money depending on the length of the contract and the incentive being offered, or whether it is better to forget about getting a ‘freebie’ and go for a shorter, lower cost contract.