Online News
EU introduces data roaming limits
Added 06/07/2010
From 1st July 2010, individuals who use their smart phone – known as data roaming – or laptop to surf the internet while in another EU country will be protected from running up large bills.
Under the new EU-wide rules, users will be cut off when their monthly bill for accessing websites while abroad reaches either the default maximum of €50 (£41) or a monthly limit previously agreed with their provider.
To avoid individuals being disconnected suddenly, a warning will be sent by text or email, or displayed on a pop-up window, when 80 percent of the limit has been used. Providers are also required to alert customers to the data roaming charges when they enter another EU country.
In addition, there has been a drop in the tariff for calls while travelling in the EU. The maximum cost for both making and receiving calls has reduced four cents (3p) to 39 cents (33p) and 15 cents (13p) respectively, with further cuts to follow.
