Bahrain’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) has issued a number of tips to consumers on how they can protect themselves and enhance their knowledge about the telecom sector, marking the GCC Consumer Protection Day.

"Consumer protection is one of the top priorities on the agenda of TRA,” said Ghada Al Qassab, TRA’s director of Consumer Affairs and Media.

“We believe that consumers’ knowledge with respect to their rights and obligations is one of the vital tools for protecting them and allowing them to make the best out of the telecommunications services they have subscribed for.”

“We hope that consumers benefit from the information published by TRA and take informed decisions when selecting a particular service or entering into service contracts with service providers. We also advise consumers to keep a copy of the service contract with them in case of any dispute that may occur with service providers,” Al Qassab added.

Tips for consumers:

• Be aware: There are several service providers in the market today. So you can enjoy all the benefits of choice. Make sure that you compare service options, terms, prices and quality as well as customer service. In fact, with the options available, you can choose more than one provider for the telecommunications services you use. Choose what suits you best.

• Read fine print: It is important that you get all the information you need from your service provider. Make sure you read and understand your service contract. Check the fine print. It is important that you know and understand the contract’s terms and conditions; ask for clarification. And always keep a copy of the contract with you.

• Be protected: Make sure not to share your personal information such as passwords, and bank account details with foreigner over the phone, or by SMS or email or any other means of communications.

• Be empowered: With number portability you can move between service providers and keep the same phone numbers while obtaining the best services that suit your requirements.

• Know where to go: You can enjoy an enhanced level of quality communications in Bahrain today. However, if you face a problem you should use your right to complain. Lodge a complaint with your service provider. If the issue is not resolved, contact TRA. It is our duty under the law to receive your complaint and work with you and your service provider to reach a solution. - TradeArabia News Service