EE and Vodafone to be investigated over false network coverage claims
EE and Vodafone are being investigated by the watchdog over claims that they gave false information about network coverage in rural areas.
The network providers are legally obliged to handover the data to Ofcom so that it can put together a report to help see how connected the country really is.
The report is then used to create maps and apps and, more importantly, to help consumers to make informed decisions about which network they choose to use.
But it said that the two mobile operators had filed inaccurate information.
The watchdog has accused EE of exaggerating its 3G coverage in rural areas, while Vodafone has been found to understate exactly how far its network reaches.
EE came up with the figures submitted to Ofcom using a formula that used data from cities and built-up areas.
This boosted the overall numbers, making it look like the coverage in rural areas is more that it is in reality.
Vodafone is being investigated for the opposite reasons because its reach of 4G in rural areas was actually underestimated.
Ofcom spokesperson: "Telecoms firms must provide accurate information to us.
"We've found errors in the data provided by EE and Vodafone, which we are now investigating."
A decision on both of the cases is expected to be made in December which could result in a fine of up to £2million for each network.
A spokesperson for EE said that it has already passed on the updated information to Ofcom and that the wrong information would have only affected a "very small number of customers".
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They said: "We apologise for any confusion this may have caused, and we continue to work to give our customers the most accurate view of the coverage available to them so that they can make an informed decision about their choice of mobile network."
A spokesperson for Vodafone said: "The data we have been submitting is adjusted to reflect the signal customers actually receive on their mobile phones.
"This is the data we use internally to assess customer coverage, whereas Ofcom reports on the theoretical strength of the signal at the location of the handset."
Ofcom is also the body that investigates viewers' complaints over issues they see broadcast on the TV.
EE is making big changes to its mobile network across the UK, meaning customers will soon enjoy faster download speeds and clearer phone calls.
Are you thinking of getting a new phone? Because you might actually be better off cashing in on a sim-only deal.
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