welcome to our section about PhonepayPlus

PhonepayPlus (previously known as ICSTIS) regulates phone-paid services in the UK. These are the premium rate goods and services that we can buy by charging the cost to our phone bills and pre-pay phone accounts.

We focus on pre-empting and preventing problems - the key, we believe, to effective long-term consumer protection.

We regulate services using our Code of Practice . This sets out the rules with which all providers of phone-paid services must comply. Among other things, we require:

• clear and accurate pricing information
• honest advertising and service content
• appropriate and targeted promotions

We investigate complaints about phone-paid services. Where we decide that our rules have been broken, we can fine the company responsible, bar access to its services and even bar the individual behind the company from running other services under a different company name. Our investigations and adjudications service is free to consumers and fully independent.

Under the Communications Act 2003, Ofcom has responsibility for the regulation of premium rate services. In December 2007 it was confirmed that PhonepayPlus will act as the agency which carries out the day-to-day regulation of the PRS market on Ofcom's behalf.

We are non-profit making and consist of ten part-time Board members, supported by a full time Executive. We regulate the content and promotion of services through our Code of Practice. We investigate complaints and have the power to fine companies and bar access to services. In addition, we offer free copy advice and guidance to both existing and new service providers.

PhonepayPlus Limited is a non-profit-making Company Limited by Guarantee, registered in England under Company Number 2398515.

Our registered office is at

Clove Building
4 Maguire Street
London
SE1 2NQ