The UK has multiple laws relating to cell phones.
Cell phones have become more popular in recent years, causing countries all over the world to increase laws and legislation related to their use. The United Kingdom is no exception. The UK government has several laws in place that are designed to protect consumers from a variety of cell phone injustices. The laws cover everything from spam messages to distracted driving.
Driving Laws
The UK has made it illegal to use a hand-held cell phone while operating a motor vehicle or a motorbike. This includes using the phone for conversations, reading or composing text messaging, browsing the web or any other activity that requires you to hold the device in your hand. Additionally, persons who are supervising a learning driver are prohibited from using a cell phone or similar hand-held device. Employers who ask employees to make or receive phone calls while driving can be prosecuted. Drivers who are caught using a cell phone are subject to fines, penalty points or even disqualification. Exceptions are made if you must make a phone call in an emergency to contact emergency personnel, or if you are safely parked.
Laws Relating To Unsolicited Messages
The UK Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations are laws that govern electronic mail. This includes text messages and picture and video messages. The law prohibits businesses or other entities from sending advertisement messages to individuals without their permission. If you receive an unsolicited message and are not given a simple way to opt out of future communications, and are unable to reach a resolution after contacting the organization responsible, the ICO may be able to assist you further. The ICO, or Information Commissioner's Office, can investigate an issue relating to unsolicited text messages if the law has been broken.
Laws Relating To Cell Phone Recycling
The UK Waste Electronic and Electrical Equipment regulations require sellers of electronic equipment to assist customers with the proper disposal of the old equipment that is being replaced. For example, if you upgrade your cell phone, the retailer that sells you the phone must take the old phone from you and dispose of it safely or provide you with information on how you may recycle the old phone free of charge. The UK also added a new code of practice for cell-phone recycling companies in 2010. The code is not yet a law, but it requires companies that agree to the code to check recycled phones against the National Mobile Phone Register. The code aims to prevent recycling companies from purchasing stolen phones. If you try to sell a stolen phone, the recycling company will pass your information and the phone's information on to the police.
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