Major telecommunications providers in the United Kingdom have all agreed to remove data caps on fixed-line broadband interest accounts amid the ongoing health and economic crisis. As millions of people in Europe self-quarantine at home, internet usage has become a vital tool for people to get in touch with their loved ones and be informed on the latest updates involving the outbreak.
The British government announced on Sunday that it has convinced major providers to lift data caps at least until the crisis is over. The providers that have agreed with the request include Virgin Media, TalkTalk, BT, Openreach, O2, Three, Hyperoptic, Gigaclear, KCOM, Vodafone, and Sky. All of the providers have expressed their commitment and support to all of its customers during this time of need following talks with government agencies and regulators.
Apart from removing data caps for broadband subscribers, the providers have also agreed to implement other measures to help out customers heavily hit by the pandemic. These measures include the enhancement of mobile and landline services, prioritizing repairs for vulnerable customers, providing convenient payment methods, and giving payment extensions.
Telecom providers will also be providing "generous" mobile and broadband packages and bonuses to help people stay connected and inside. These packages will include free data boosts, free calls, and reduced prices on existing promotions.
The companies have also agreed to provide "alternate methods of communications" for those who are currently experiencing issues with their connections. As for late payments, the telecom providers have agreed to treat customers fairly, particularly those who are having a hard time paying their bills as a direct result of the outbreak.
UK Digital Secretary Oliver Dowden, mentioned in a statement that internet services need to be stable and available during these times as people stay at home to save lives. The country is echoing similar moves made by other countries to lift internet restrictions in order to keep people inside their homes during the crisis to mitigate further spread.
The sudden surge in online users across Europe is expected to place heavy pressures on networks, likely resulting in outages and issues. However, telecom providers have been mandated to do their best to keep the lights on given that the internet has become a vital resource for those who are working at home and for those who are in isolation.
Providers have asked other media companies to help in ensuring network stability. Earlier in the month, Netflix had agreed to lower the bandwidth of its video streams to reduce the load on European networks.
