Ziggo blocks ad-skipping on commercial channels without warning customers

People who watch TV through Ziggo will no longer be able to skip commercial breaks starting from September 1, according to De Telegraaf. The company reportedly changed the rules for fast-forwarding ads on commercial TV without clearly informing the customers in advance.

Ziggo customers who used to be able to pause a show and then fast-forward through ads until they are caught up will no longer be able to do so on channels from Talpa and STAR, similar to restrictions that already apply to RTL stations. When a viewer is allowed to skip advertising breaks, they will only be able to do so once the broadcast has completely ended.

A Ziggo spokesperson told De Telegraaf that the exact arrangements differ per broadcaster. “We fully understand this takes some getting used to for customers,” the spokesperson said.

"We are making this change because of contractual agreements with the TV channels. It applies both on the Mediabox and on Ziggo GO.”

Ziggo stated that it has at least 4 million television subscribers, while about 3 million households also use the provider’s internet. Another 2.5 million customers use Ziggo’s mobile services.

Complaints have reportedly been pouring onto VodafoneZiggo’s form, with the customers allegedly calling the move a “rip-off” or a “dirty trick,” while some have threatened to cancel their subscription.

According to the RTL, there is a sharp criticism of Ziggo not announcing the change earlier. All-in-one package, which includes internet, TV, and phone service, for example, starts at 63.35 euros and runs up to 100.35 euros a month.