Commentary on Sections Part 2: Networks, Services and the Radio Spectrum Chapter 1: Electronic Communications Networks and Services Section 125: Dishonestly obtaining electronic communications services
301.Anyone who dishonestly obtains an electronic communications service and intends to avoid paying for that service is guilty of an offence under section 125. A person found guilty of the offence will be liable to a fine or imprisonment, or both. Under subsection (2), it is not an offence under this section to obtain a service mentioned in section 297(1) of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988. This section replaces section 42 of the Telecommunications Act 1984 which is repealed by Schedule 19.
	*Section 297(1) of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 mentions programmes included in a broadcasting or cable programme service (as defined in that Act).