Customer update 26th January 2009

Bango's Payforit approved pages compliant with new PhonepayPlus regulations

PhonepayPlus, the UK's regulatory body, has just published updated regulations regarding subscription services.

Bango content providers using Payforit are exempt from the new regulations. If you plan any services marketed off-line that do not bill through Payforit and fall within the PhonepayPlus criteria, you need to comply with immediate effect. For all Bango-enabled services, no changes are required.

Some of the new rules that have been approved are as follows:

• Content Providers who are offering a subscription services charging more than GBP4.50 must gain prior permission from PhonepayPlus before marketing their services
  
  
• A text message must be sent to each mobile user before delivery of the service, and users must reply to confirm acceptance of the subscription. This is in effect a double opt-in for any subscription service subject to the new regulations
  
  
• Stricter controls over marketing lists. The Payforit opt-in flow delivered by Bango is exempt, and marketing lists built using Bango Payforit opt-ins are considered valid proof of consumer opt in.
  

The new rules and regulations have arisen due to increased complaints from consumers, involving a handful of content provider’s services. Bango content providers have set an exemplary record with no complaints, very low refund levels and few cancellation requests.

Full details of the report can be found here.

Kind regards,

Elaine Davies
VP Customer Services