The deputy chairman of a major liberal democratic party in the State Duma has urged the Federal Antimonopoly Service to examine allegations that mobile operators levy commissions when subscribers top up their accounts through third party banks. In a formal message to the head of the antitrust agency, Maxim Shaskolsky, Boris Chernyshov requests clarification on whether telecom providers are permitted to charge fees to customers who use non-bank channels for recharging their balances. He goes so far as to propose the possibility of a broader regulatory prohibition that would cover the entire telecommunications sector, including mobile operators as well as cable TV and internet service providers, arguing for a level playing field and greater consumer protections across services.
Since late 2022, Chernyshov notes, several mobile operators have begun applying charges to customers who choose to fund their accounts via third party banks. He summarizes the explanations offered by executives, who attribute these charges to extra costs within the payment processing flow. The practitioner’s perspective raises fundamental questions about fairness and transparency for users who rely on bank based top ups, and whether the fees are justifiable under consumer protection rules or antitrust standards. The dialogue touches on whether pricing structures should be scrutinized or outright banned to ensure clear, predictable billing for telecommunications services.
In related coverage, reports indicated that some mobile subscribers requested the transfer of certain account data to Roskomnadzor. The agency was reportedly contemplating collection of information such as the subscriber’s full name, contract dates, and service terms, including connection start and end dates. Details and the regulatory justification behind these moves were not fully disclosed at the time. Critics warn that data collection and sharing could raise privacy and security concerns for users, while policymakers weigh how to balance oversight with respect for consumer rights. This topic sits at the intersection of digital communications policy, data protection, and market competition, drawing ongoing debate about how to ensure transparency and accountability in telecom billing practices.
Historical observations note that some billing schemes related to SIM card use have been described as deceptive, with scammers exploiting gaps in consumer awareness and billing processes. Industry observers emphasize the need for clearer pricing, easier fee disclosures, and robust enforcement to deter improper charges while ensuring legitimate costs tied to payment handling are covered. As regulatory discussions continue, stakeholders from government, industry, and civil society are seeking practical rules that protect customers without disrupting access to essential communications services. This evolving landscape underscores the importance of clear, enforceable standards and transparent communication about any charges tied to account top ups, whether they pass through banks or other payment channels, with attribution to sources such as RIA Novosti and related regulatory briefings.