Stop and think before buying
a mobile this Christmas
If a mobile phone is on your shopping list this Christmas, you should
stop and think before you buy, according to the Australian Communications
Authority (ACA).
The ACA today warned consumers to think carefully about the services
and features they wanted in a mobile phone handset and service package
before making a final decision.
“Consumers need to take some basic steps to avoid potential debt
traps when buying a mobile phone,” ACA Acting Chairman Allan Horsley
said.
“Doing some homework on what is available before making a purchase
can save a financial headache when the first bill comes in.”
Mr Horsley said that one of the key decisions for consumers was whether
they wanted a phone with all the features, such as a camera, or a simpler
phone just to keep in touch.
He said the ACA had developed its highly successful mobile phone Tool
Kit to help consumers make a decision by arming them with the necessary
information and questions to ask mobile phone companies.
“The Tool Kit is available in print and on CD ROM. It includes an
interactive website that enables consumers to identify their unique mobile
phone needs and helps them make informed choices about telecommunications
products and services,” Mr Horsley said.
“Once consumers have identified their mobile phone needs, the Tool
Kit provides a list of the key questions they need to ask mobile phone
companies.
“Our advice is to choose the type of phone and service that best
meets your needs and remember to look at the contract before you sign.”
The ACA mobile phone Tool Kit is on the ACA website at www.toolkit.aca.gov.au
or call the Tool Kit hotline 1800 351 135.
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