Access to Audiotext numbers is now barred by default. From August 25, 2001 onwards , users who desire access to such servicesmust specifically request them. The new regulatory framework also increases the sanctionary powers of the Instituto das Comunicações de Portugal (ICP).
The rule of barred access by default applies to numbers starting with the codes 601, 608, 646 and 648. An exception is made to numbers starting with 607 - the code corresponding to tele-voting services. Access to the latter services is maintained and will only be barred if the user so requests.
These new requirements automatically apply to fixed telephone service contracts established from the present date. For other contracts, the respective telephone service operators have a 90-day deadline in order to implement such barred access, excluding tele-voting services, starting on the date on which this diploma enters into force - tomorrow, August 25, 2001. When barring access, operators must inform customers of the instruments whereby they can request general or selective access to such services.
The new law that regulates the provision of such services, approved in the Assembly of the Republic, widens the powers of ICP, specifically in regards to suspension of use of the prefix codes and revocation of the registration of Audiotext providers. The law also increases the fines applicable.
As a result, ICP may now suspend the use of a prefix by a provider for up to 2 years, or revoke the registration of an Audiotext provider, whenever the Institute detects non-compliance between the prefix used and the characteristics of the service provided and whenever it detects failure to include the initial obligatory message on the price and characteristics of the service.
The fines applicable now vary between PTE 500,000 and PTE 5 million and between PTE 3 million and PTE 10 million in accordance with the nature of the counter-manding acts and whether they have been practised by individual persons or corporate bodies, respectively.
Customer information obligations of such services are maintained. Thus the 601 prefix necessarily corresponds to Audiotext services in general; 607 to televoting services; 608 to sales services; 646 to competitions and leisure services; and 648 to erotic services. Providers are also obliged to include an initial 10-second message informing users of the price to be charged, the nature of the service, and whether it is for adults only; and must also include a beep on every minute, in order for the customer to be aware of the duration of the call.
Consult:
- Law no. 95/2001, of 20 August https://www.anacom.pt/render.jsp?contentId=17015
