Vodafone warned for restricting device freedom (Endgerätefreiheit)

The Verbraucherzentrale Rheinland‑Pfalz has issued a warning (Abmahnung) to Vodafone for allegedly forcing customers in certain fiber deployment areas to use provider-supplied fiber modems, which would violate Germany’s device‑freedom rules established in 2016.

Key points

• Since 2016 German law (TK‑Endgerätegesetz) guarantees consumers the freedom to choose their own routers and modems — this includes fiber modems and routers with integrated modems.
• The Verbraucherzentrale Rheinland‑Pfalz says Vodafone still requires the provider’s or a partner’s glass‑fiber modem in some subsidized and cooperation networks, effectively blocking customers from using their own equipment.
• Similar warnings have been issued previously to other fiber providers (e.g. Deutsche Glasfaser).

What this means for customers

If Vodafone is imposing mandatory use of a provider device, it may be unlawful. Consumers should be informed of their right to use their own equipment at contract signing and can contact consumer protection organizations if they face restrictions.

Sources & further reading

• Heise: Abmahnung für Vodafone und Deutsche Glasfaser
• Telespiegel: Abmahnung gegen Vodafone
• Teltarif: Verbraucherzentrale mahnt Vodafone ab
• Inside Digital: Abmahnung für Vodafone

Note: Original coverage appeared on multiple outlets; links above point to independent reporting (excluded direct links to the original RSS source).