Ofcom has banned surprise price hikes in mobile, broadband, and pay-TV contracts, requiring companies to disclose future price increases “in pounds and pence” before customers sign contracts. The move follows complaints about unexpected rises linked to inflation, which made budgeting harder during a cost-of-living crisis. However, Citizens Advice criticised the measures as insufficient, noting some customers might still face significant price increases. From Friday, providers must clearly display pricing information during sales interactions. Ofcom hopes this will improve transparency, rebuild consumer trust, and enhance market competition.