MDA updates consumer protection measures for pay-TV subscribers

FOLLOWING extensive public consultations and feedback, the Media Development Authority of Singapore (MDA) has finalised its recommendations to enhance pay-TV consumer protection measures under the Media Market Conduct Code. The proposals will take effect from next month.

While most of the recommendations are on the lines of what the MDA has articulated before, one important new measure introduced is the requirement for pay-TV operators to provide the option for 12-month or shorter contract terms for all pay-TV packages and bundles.

This will give consumers the option of shorter contracts if they are uncomfortable with a longer-term commitment.

The MDA measures aim to address three key consumer concerns: unilateral contract changes, forced upgrades of non pay-TV services and the lack of awareness of the terms and conditions of contracts.