3.5 million have switched broadband with One Touch Switch, says Ofcom

Nearly 3.5 million people have used One Touch Switch to change broadband or landline provider since it launched two years ago, according to Ofcom. The regulator is urging more people to check whether they're overpaying.

Ofcom's analysis shows that people on bundled packages pay an average of £78 a month when they're out of contract, compared with £69 when they're in contract. It says out-of-contract customers could save more than £100 a year by switching. Last year, one in three customers with a "triple play" bundle (broadband, landline and pay TV) was out of contract.

Ofcom also found that money is tight for many people. It says 4% of telecoms customers missed a payment in the last quarter, and 7% cancelled a service because of cost-of-living pressures.

Your rights when switching

With One Touch Switch, you only need to contact the provider you're moving to. They arrange the switch and your old contract ends, so you don't have to call your current provider to cancel. More than 300 providers are part of the scheme. To switch mobile network, text "PAC" to 65075 for a free code to keep your number.

Ways to save

• Check your contract end date. Your provider must tell you when your contract is ending and show you its best deals. If you're already out of contract, you can usually leave without a penalty.
• Haggle first. Use a cheaper offer from a rival to ask your current provider for a better price. Then switch if they won't match it.
• Ask about social tariffs. If you get Universal Credit or certain other benefits, you could be eligible for a cheap broadband or mobile tariff. Ofcom says these could save around £200 a year.

Sources: Ofcom