Competition in the broadband market means there are better introductory offers than ever - but anyone tempted by the short-term deals could end up being a long-term loser. A third of people stay with the company that they first signed up with, even though the deal may not be best for them, warned BroadbandChoices.co.uk.

Its research revealed that people are being seduced by the many introductory deals on offer when choosing their broadband package. More than half of the people surveyed had signed up for an introductory deal - with a further third switching to another offer when their current deal had ended.

However, another third of people chose to stay with their supplier after the introductory deal had ended - blaming lack of time, not wanting the hassle of switching and believing that switching would be too expensive as their reasons for staying put.

Michael Phillips, product director of Broadbandchoices.co.uk, warned: "With the credit crunch continuing to squeeze British consumers, more people are opting for introductory offers thinking it will save them money in the long run. It is important, however, to ensure that the deal you sign up for matches your requirements - no matter how tempting the intro deal.

"It is pointless for someone who uses the internet for occasional emailing to pay out for a top-end broadband connection with a huge download limit. The intro offer may be cheap but the price will eventually revert to the standard cost and you will find yourself overpaying for a service you aren't making full use of.

"Shopping around using a comparison site, and comparing the package features as well as the price, is the best way for consumers to save money in the long term."

Student guide to broadband deals 

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