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ICSTIS launches a child's guide to premium rate services
And a new code of practice
ICSTIS, the UK's premium-rate regulator, has launched a site to explain to children how premium-rate services operate, and how to avoid being ripped off.
It is also publishing an updated code of practice, which will come in to force next year.
PhoneBrain was set up to encourage children to use their brain before they use their phone. The site has much the same information on it as the normal ICSTIS site, though with funky colours, friendly fonts, and the occasional use of youth-speak to stay hip to the scene.
The launch of PhoneBrain coincides with the latest version of the ICSTIS Code of Practice, version 11, along with explanatory notes.
The code now recognises the concept of an Information Provider, which may be separate from a network operator, and introduces some additional sanctions which can be taken against those failing to comply with rulings. VoIP providers are also now recognised, and regulated, should they be providing premium services.
The update is mainly concerned with recognising how the industry has evolved in recent years, and ensuring the ISCTIS can maintain what has, so far, been generally effective regulation. ®
Biting the hand that feeds IT
