MANY local service providers are keen on helping their consumers by providing efficient assistance through their customer service department.Unfortunately, there are many service providers who are encumbering their consumers by charging them for using their 1300 toll-free number.Toll-free number 1800 is free for both landline and mobile. But, many service providers are offering toll-free number 1300 where consumers are charged for using the services.

This is unfair as service providers should provide customer service and assistance free of charge. Some consumers find it difficult to contact the service provider’s landline number, hence use the toll-free number 1300 on matters related to the service provider.Consumers are not aware that they are being charged for using the 1300 toll-free number.Service providers should provide alternatives for the consumers to call if they have any queries or matters to clarify. They can provide more landlines for consumers to contact.Please note that if you want to use the toll-free 1300, you have to pay for the call. It is utterly unfair to charge consumers when it is supposed to be toll-“FREE”.

S. BASKARAN,

Senior Manager,National Consumer Complaints Centre (NCCC)