Telecom operators face scrutiny over subscription charges linked to social media tests in Finland

Social media tests and games may inadvertently lead to paid subscriptions, which show up on phone bills. Telecom operators such as DNA, Elisa, and Telia continue their collaboration with the Swiss payment processor NTH AG, despite the company’s involvement in numerous billing disputes. The Consumer Ombudsman emphasizes that operators are responsible for verifying the accuracy of bills, allowing consumers to withhold payment for questionable charges.

While Telia has removed the option to subscribe to entertainment services via text message, Elisa and DNA still permit this subscription method. Fraudsters are exploiting social media platforms to generate revenue through misleading tests and games that often appear free but lead to charges on consumers’ phone bills.

For instance, a participant in an online intelligence test could receive a surprise charge after providing their phone number. According to Ilkka Tuominen, fraud prevention chief at DNA, billing occurs because messages sent from a consumer’s line are registered in the operator’s system as subscription requests.

Many users find themselves unaware of these charges as they are often not disclosed explicitly during the tests or games. Continuous subscriptions can prove challenging to cancel. NTH AG, a company specializing in mobile payments, has faced complaints for over a decade regarding its automated billing practices.

Telia’s consumer division has expressed intentions to reevaluate its partnership with NTH AG if consumer complaints persist. The Consumer Ombudsman advocates for consumer rights, stating that consumers can appeal directly to operators regarding misleading charges.

NTH AG maintains that it serves merely as a payment facilitator, stating that the content and services provided are the responsibility of third-parties. They assert their commitment to combating misuse and are enhancing security measures in collaboration with telecom operators.