New research has revealed that 7.7 Million broadband users are being stung with extra charges levied by UK ISPs. This can, on average, costs consumers an additional £44 per year and equates to roughly £340m in additional revenue. Nearly half (47%) of those incurring additional charges did not realise these costs formed part of their contract.

The Moneysupermarket study of 2319 British adults between Friday 5th June and Tuesday 9th June 2009 found that paper billing (44%) and non-direct debit payments (24%) are the most common charges incurred, as well as calls to technical support lines (17%) and charges for exceeding download limits (17%).

Certainly this is a problem and another reason why it is always wise to read the Terms and Conditions (T&C's) of a service before completing your signup. However it would be welcome if Ofcom imposed new requirements upon ISPs to list any additional charges in a clear format under package their details.