Salvatet Inversiones SL

The case concerned an Information, Connection and Signposting Service (ICSS) which operated on the number ranges 09040121XXX, 09040127XXX and 09040128XXX. The Level 2 provider for the Service was Salvatet Inversiones SL. The Network operator for the Service was Telecom2 Ltd.

Salvatet ran an ICSS service which connected consumers to well-known companies and government departments such as Amazon, O2 and DWP. Consumers variously alleged they weren’t made aware of the service costs and that the promotional material was misleading, with some consumers reporting charges into the hundreds of pounds.

The PSA Tribunal found Salvatet had committed four breaches, including not treating consumers fairly and equitably, and two breaches relating to ICSS Special conditions.

Having regard to all of the circumstances of the case the Tribunal decided to impose the following sanctions:

• formal reprimand
• a prohibition on the Level 2 provider from providing, or having any involvement in, any premium rate service for a period of five years, starting from the date of publication of the Tribunal decision, or until payment of the fine and the administrative charges have been made in full, whichever is the later
• a requirement that the Level 2 provider must refund all consumers who claim a refund for the full amount spent by them on the Service within 28 days of their claim, save where there is good cause to believe that such claims are not valid and provide evidence to the PSA that such refunds have been made
• a fine of £1,000,000.00.

Administrative charge recommendation: 100%