Security News > 2021 > June > ISPs must provide emergency video service to deaf users: Ofcom
UK telecom and broadcasting regulator, Ofcom has mandated new requirements for Internet Service Providers and phone companies to provide additional services for users with special needs.
These include companies in the sector-even those not typically providing telephony services to offer an emergency video relay service that users with hearing or speech impairments can rely on.
Although these requirements are may impose new challenges on telecoms, their goal is to provide equivalent access to emergency services for British Sign Language users.
UK Government's regulator for TV, internet, and communications, Office of Communications has mandated new requirements for telecom companies and internet providers to offer an emergency video relay service for deaf users.
The emergency video service will provide equivalent access to emergency services, such as 999, to users with hearing or speech impairments.
As with any emergency services, the video relay service would be free for users.