UK consumers are owed millions of pounds by their old broadband, landline and TV providers.

According to telecoms industry regulator Ofcom, around two million customers have moved to a different communications company in the past two years.

Having made the switch, they have failed to claim a combined amount of at least £10 million from their previous providers, the organisation revealed.

Ofcom has pledged to make it easier for people to be reimbursed any outstanding balance on their old accounts and found that Virgin Media automatically refunds customers any amount over £1 if they cancel their contract inside 28 days.

The fibre optic broadband company will automate this process for all of its subscribers from December 2010.

Chief executive of Ofcom Ed Richards commented: "Automated refund processes, clearer signposting by providers and our new consumer guide should help consumers claim back money that is rightfully theirs."

Last month, the body revealed that 45 per cent of broadband and landline subscribers are put off switching to a different provider because they fear it will be too much hassle.

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