TalkTalk's takeover of Tiscali could result in some ex-Tiscali customers facing higher monthly bills for their broadband.
TalkTalk will commence moving customers onto its own broadband platform this week after completing its takeover of Tiscali.
Customers on Tiscali's popular unlimited broadband package received a letter last month which explained that they could either move onto TalkTalk's phone and broadband package for £14.99 a month or pay an extra £5 per month or £60 per year to remain on their current broadband deal.
Many recipients of the letter are unhappy faced with the choice of a new 18 month contract with TalkTalk or an increased bill with no extra benefits in return.
When questioned about the possibility of price rises, TalkTalk's spokesman Mark Schmid told The Guardian: "Our aim is to have one set of clearly understood prices, that will mean that no one is paying more than the TalkTalk tariff."
Tiscali operated a set of near-identical broadband and home phone packages to TalkTalk, the majority at lower prices.
The effect of the switch means that many former Tiscali customers could see monthly bills rise to match TalkTalk pricing.
Customers on Tiscali's top package which included all call costs, broadband and line rental face an increase of around £10 per month if prices are raised to match the TalkTalk product of the same nature.
In an attempt to capitalise on the publicity, other broadband providers have announced special promotions specifically targeted at ex-Tiscali customers.
PlusNet launched a broadband deal which offers ex-Tiscali customers 3 months free broadband as well as a free wireless router and free connection.
Former Tiscali customers need to sign up online before the end of the month with the promotional code 'tiscalisave' to benefit.
BT is also offering a special £9.99 package for any Tiscali customers looking to leave the company when it is taken over.
The BT broadband offer can only be accessed when ringing 08000497843 and interested customers need to mention the Tiscali promotion to qualify.
Elsewhere, other broadband providers are offering deals which are unconnected to the events surrounding Tiscali and TalkTalk yet represent significant value.
Many broadband experts suggest that anyone looking for a good broadband deal at present, whether ex-Tiscali or not, should compare broadband deals online at a comparison website.
Julia Kukiewicz of ChooseISP.co.uk says: "Be broadband now offer a very similar broadband package for just £7.50 per month. This is significant value and much cheaper than many inferior broadband deals on the market at present.".