Deputy calls for ring-tone sales probe

A LABOUR deputy has called for an investigation into the high costs of mobile phone downloads such as ring-tones and games and the companies that inadvertently sign children up to contracts.

Dr Mary Upton said she knew of a 10-year-old who entered into a contract with a company and ended up paying high charges.

She named the company, Jamster, in the Dáil yesterday and called for the Enterprise Minister to investigate.

Dr Upton said the youngster was attracted by an advertisement in a football magazine. He joined one of the clubs entitling him to a number of new ring tones and wallpaper every month, at a charge of €8.

“At no stage in joining the club was he aware that he was agreeing to a contract. Nowhere did the subscriber ask his age, nor did the company stipulate that a subscriber must be at least 16 years of age,” said Dr Upton. It did state that a contract agreed with a person under 16 is void.

Apart from the cost of joining, subscribers pay a €1.65 charge on every text alert received, including ones from the company on ordering a new ring tone.

When contacted by Dr Upton, the company referred her to Vodafone. Neither was able to help, she said. The company, whose press office can only be contacted by e-mail, did not respond to one from the Irish Examiner last night.

“I am now calling on the minister and relevant state agencies to look into the pricing structure of this service. This company is preying on the attraction young people and children have to their mobile phones,” said Dr Upton.