Consumers still find it hard to get MAC codes

Whilst many people may be interested in switching broadband providers in order to improve service or save money many are still said to be experiencing difficulty in obtaining their MAC code.

These days switching broadband provider should be an easy, speedy, and simple process. Many people look to switch providers because they want a better level of service or because they want to save money on the cost of the service. However, in order to switch from an existing provider to a new one consumers are required to obtain a Migration Authorisation Code or MAC code from their current providers.

It has been claimed by a broadband industry group that many people are experiencing problems when it comes to obtaining their MAC codes, and this is making it difficult and time consuming for them to transfer to a new provider. This is an issue that has been highlighted in the past, and steps were taken to make the process easier and faster. However, many are still said to be experiencing problems. A survey showed that nearly two thirds of consumers had to wait up to a week to get their MAC code, and 31 percent had to request the code multiple times.

One official said: “Switching broadband providers must be made easier as it’s an important part of household budgeting, particularly in these austere times. The purpose of introducing MAC codes was to prevent unwanted switching/slamming and empower consumers to exercise their right to shop around for a better deal – but this hasn’t translated into reality.”

“As many customers have to request their MAC code from their existing provider before being able to move to the new one, this slows down what could be a more straightforward process. Under our current process the ‘losing’ provider can drag their feet, and in some cases put the customer off switching altogether, leaving them on the same poor-value, outdated packages.”

Source – Xlntelecom