charge for text message received but not requested

[dollydoo]

I have a contract with vodafone and for years have had no probs and anytime they send me info texts I open & then delete them, free of charge. However, a few days ago, I had what I thought was one of these text messages and did the usual but upon checking my statement I noticed that I had been charged �1.50 for receipt of this message which I hadn't actually requested in the first place. I phoned vodafone who weren't very helpful they just said that its another company nothing to do with them but that they get charged for this other co to send messages and so vodafone then distribute the charge to their customer. They reckon this is perfectly legal and that all I can do is write in and complain! So I'm asking if anyone knows anything more about this. I'm really annoyed, these people can send a text and get paid for it what a flippin scam - imagine how much they must be raking in?!

[squarebear]

I assume you have signed up for a service? It will be in the terms and conditions (which no-one reads) that they charge �1.50 a text.

[Buenchico]

If you didn't subscribe to a premium rate text service, it's likely that a 'friend' has done so for you (either by 'borrowing' your phone when you weren't looking or by signing up for a service online).

The unsolicited text probably came from an SMS service using a 'shortcode' (i.e. the sending number was just a 4 or 5 digit number). All shortcode service providers are obliged, by law, to support the universal stop commands. That means that all you need to do is to text 'STOP' back to the sending number to terminate the service. (If you find that you're receiving various premium rate services from the same shortcode, text 'STOP ALL'. It might be a good idea to use that command anyway, in case your 'friend' has signed you up for every service that the company offers).

If you continue to receive unsolicited premium rate texts after using the 'STOP' command, contact your service provider. They're then obliged to take action. Alternatively (or as well) complain directly to Ofcom, which regulates premium rate SMS services:
http://www.ofcom.org.uk/complain/mobile/subscr iptions/

Chris

[dollydoo]

I would never subscribe to premium rate text services neither would any of my friends. Thanks for replies, I've complained to the company that sent text and to my service provider and once I've had their responses I will make complaints to ofcom as well as phonepay Plus. Thanks again