Chilean Consumer Service Questions Telecoms Over Prefix Use

Chile's National Consumer Service (Sernac) has officially contacted the Undersecretariat of Telecommunications (Subtel) regarding a potential violation in the use of specific phone prefixes. The prefixes, 600 and 809, were implemented to help users distinguish between different types of calls and to curb unwanted spam.

The investigation was prompted by information suggesting that some telecommunications companies might not be adhering to the regulations governing these prefixes. Sernac is particularly concerned about the possibility that one or more companies are defaulting to blocking the 809 prefix through digital mechanisms. This practice could potentially hinder incoming calls from other operators and affect crucial services such as number portability, freedom of choice in telecommunications, information transparency, and the handling of users' personal data.

In response to these concerns, Sernac has requested Subtel to provide details on any ongoing investigations, potential legal ramifications, and measures already taken against the involved companies. Sernac has also warned that if non-compliance with current regulations or the Consumer Protection Law is confirmed, it will consider initiating individual or collective legal actions.

The use of prefixes 600 and 809 became mandatory in August 2025. Prefix 600 is designated for calls from companies with an existing contractual relationship with the user, while prefix 809 identifies commercial offers or campaigns. The initiative aimed to make it easier for consumers to identify unwanted calls and prevent potential fraud.