Based on looking at the website, Allstarutilities.co.uk appears to be a comparison service designed to help users find deals on essential utilities like broadband, mobile, gas, and electricity in the UK.
The platform aims to simplify the process of comparing various providers and offers, potentially saving users time and money.
While the general concept of comparing utility deals is permissible and beneficial for managing household finances, it’s crucial to approach such services with a discerning eye, ensuring transparency, ethical practices, and avoiding any elements that might involve riba interest or deceptive financial practices.
The website highlights its ability to find competitive rates and offers a convenient way to navigate the often-complex utility market, which can be a valuable tool for optimizing household expenses within permissible boundaries. Srjwindows.com Reviews
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Allstarutilities.co.uk Review & First Look
Upon a preliminary review, Allstarutilities.co.uk positions itself as a comprehensive UK utility comparison site.
It claims to simplify the often-daunting task of finding the best deals across various essential services. Organise.co.uk Reviews
The site’s primary focus is on broadband, mobile, gas, and electricity, along with mentions of security, accounting, law, and benefits/applications, although these latter services seem secondary to the core utility comparisons.
The user interface appears straightforward, emphasizing ease of use and quick comparisons.
Initial Impressions of the User Experience
The website’s design is clean and navigation seems intuitive.
Users are immediately presented with prominent “COMPARE NOW” buttons for broadband, mobile, and gas & electricity.
This direct approach aims to get users into the comparison process quickly, minimizing friction. Unicornbusinessplans.com Reviews
The site emphasizes saving time and money, two significant motivators for anyone looking to switch utility providers.
- Prominent CTAs: Clear calls to action lead users directly to comparison tools.
- Segmented Services: Utility comparisons are clearly separated, making it easy to find specific services.
Understanding the Service Offering
Allstarutilities.co.uk states it helps users “find your best deal” across various categories. This suggests a lead generation model where they provide quotes or direct users to providers based on specified criteria. The explicit mention of “saving an average of £349*” for gas & electricity highlights a key benefit, though the asterisk points to terms and conditions that should always be thoroughly reviewed.
- Core Offerings:
- Broadband & TV deals
- SIM & Mobile deals
- Gas & Electricity comparisons
- Additional Services Mentioned:
- Security solutions
- Accounting & Law help
- Benefits & Applications assistance details on these are sparse on the homepage
Allstarutilities.co.uk Cons
While the premise of Allstarutilities.co.uk is to assist consumers, there are potential drawbacks and areas that require careful consideration.
As with any comparison service, it’s crucial to understand how they operate and what limitations or implications might exist.
The primary concern is the potential for undisclosed commissions or the prioritization of certain providers over others, which could impact the “best deal” truly offered to the user. Tuimusement.com Reviews
Potential for Bias or Incomplete Information
Comparison sites often operate on a commission basis, meaning they earn money when a user signs up with a provider through their platform.
This model inherently creates a potential conflict of interest where certain providers might be promoted more heavily, even if they aren’t genuinely the absolute best deal for every user.
- Limited Provider Partnerships: The site may not include all available providers in the market, potentially missing niche or smaller companies that could offer better terms.
- Commission-Driven Rankings: It’s common for comparison sites to rank offers based on the commission they receive, rather than purely on the consumer’s benefit. Transparency on this aspect is often lacking.
- Dynamic Pricing: Utility prices fluctuate constantly. The “deals” shown might be outdated by the time a user attempts to sign up, leading to frustration.
Lack of Detailed Transparency
The homepage, while functional, doesn’t offer deep transparency into how comparisons are made, the full range of providers included, or the financial relationships with those providers.
This opacity makes it challenging for users to fully trust the recommendations.
- Absence of Comprehensive “About Us”: While an “About us” section is mentioned, detailed information on the company’s background, its methodology for comparisons, or its regulatory compliance is not immediately visible on the homepage.
- Generic Customer Reviews: The presence of “HUNDREDS OF HAPPY ALL STAR CUSTOMERS” and “CUSTOMER REVIEWS READ MORE” links without immediate access to independent, verifiable reviews could be a red flag.
- Terms and Conditions Clarity: The small print, especially regarding data usage and the comparison process, is crucial and not prominently displayed.
Allstarutilities.co.uk Alternatives
When seeking to optimize utility expenses, relying solely on one comparison site might not be the most comprehensive approach. Gypsumtools.com Reviews
A more diligent strategy involves utilizing a variety of tools and resources, ensuring a broader perspective and minimizing the risks associated with potential biases.
For those looking to manage household finances responsibly, exploring multiple avenues is key.
Direct Provider Comparisons
The most straightforward alternative is to bypass comparison sites altogether and visit individual utility providers’ websites directly.
This allows you to check their latest offers, terms, and conditions firsthand.
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Advantages: Wevoice.co.uk Reviews
- Full Transparency: You see all available deals directly from the source.
- No Commission Bias: Decisions are based purely on your research, not on what a comparison site might earn.
- Exclusive Online Deals: Some providers offer deals only available on their own websites.
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Process:
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Identify major utility providers in your area e.g., British Gas, E.ON, Octopus Energy for gas/electricity. BT, Virgin Media, Sky for broadband.
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Visit each provider’s website and input your details to get personalized quotes.
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Compare the quotes side-by-side in a spreadsheet to identify the best fit for your needs and budget.
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Government-Endorsed or Non-Profit Comparison Tools
In the UK, several independent bodies and non-profit organizations offer comparison services that are generally more trusted due to their impartiality. Therainydays.co.uk Reviews
These platforms often aim to provide consumer protection and accurate information.
- Ofgem Office of Gas and Electricity Markets: As the independent energy regulator for Great Britain, Ofgem provides a list of accredited price comparison websites that meet strict accuracy and impartiality standards.
- Citizens Advice: This independent charity offers free, confidential advice on various issues, including energy and utility matters. Their website often includes guides and tools for comparing deals ethically.
- Uswitch.com: While a commercial entity, Uswitch has established itself as a prominent and generally reliable comparison site for utilities, insurance, and financial products in the UK. They often provide extensive information and a wide range of providers.
- Key Features:
- Comprehensive market coverage for many services.
- User reviews and detailed product information.
- Guidance on switching processes.
- Key Features:
- MoneySuperMarket.com: Similar to Uswitch, MoneySuperMarket is a well-known commercial comparison site covering a broad spectrum of financial and utility products.
* Comparison across a vast number of providers.
* Tools for tracking price changes and setting up alerts.
* Often provides exclusive deals.
Utilizing Personal Budgeting and Financial Planning Apps
Modern financial technology offers apps that can help you track utility spending, identify areas for savings, and even alert you to better deals.
These tools empower you to take control of your finances proactively.
- Key Functionality:
- Spending Tracking: Categorize and monitor your monthly utility outgoings.
- Bill Reminders: Avoid late payment fees by getting alerts for due dates.
- Subscription Management: Identify and potentially cancel unused subscriptions.
- Price Change Alerts: Some apps can notify you when a better utility deal becomes available based on your usage patterns.
- Examples UK-focused:
- Starling Bank / Monzo: Many challenger banks offer robust in-app budgeting tools that automatically categorize spending, including utilities.
- Personal Finance Aggregators: Apps like Yolt or Emma can link to all your bank accounts and credit cards to provide a holistic view of your finances, including utility bills.
How to Approach Utility Switching Ethically
When considering switching utility providers, it’s essential to ensure the process aligns with ethical financial principles.
This involves focusing on genuine value, transparency, and avoiding practices that might involve undue complexity, hidden fees, or interest-based arrangements riba. Reykjavikcars.com Reviews
Understand Your Current Usage and Needs
Before comparing, get a clear picture of your current utility consumption.
This data is critical for accurate comparisons and for ensuring you select a plan that genuinely fits your household’s requirements, rather than an artificially low promotional rate that doesn’t account for your actual usage.
- Gather Data:
- Electricity & Gas: Note down your annual or monthly kWh usage from recent bills. Understand your peak and off-peak consumption if you have a smart meter.
- Broadband: Determine your average monthly data usage and the speed you genuinely need for your activities streaming, gaming, working from home.
- Mobile: Review your monthly call minutes, texts, and data usage.
- Assess Needs:
- Do you need unlimited data for mobile or broadband?
- Are you primarily concerned with green energy tariffs?
- Do you prefer fixed-rate or variable-rate energy plans?
- Are there any specific add-ons e.g., TV packages, international calls you require?
Scrutinize the Terms and Conditions
This is perhaps the most crucial step.
Never switch providers without thoroughly reading and understanding the full terms and conditions of the new contract.
Pay close attention to contract length, early exit fees, price increase clauses, and any hidden charges. Protouchclean.co.uk Reviews
- Key Areas to Review:
- Contract Length: Is it a 12-month, 18-month, or 24-month contract? Longer contracts often come with early termination penalties.
- Exit Fees: What are the charges if you decide to leave the contract before its term ends?
- Price Guarantees: Is the price fixed for the entire contract duration, or can it increase? Understand the circumstances under which prices might change.
- Introductory vs. Standard Rates: Many deals offer a low introductory rate that jumps significantly after a certain period. Know what your bill will look like post-promotion.
- Installation/Activation Fees: Are there any upfront costs for setting up new services?
- Equipment Costs: For broadband or mobile, are you buying the equipment outright, or is it a rental that must be returned?
- Payment Methods: Ensure the accepted payment methods align with your ethical financial practices e.g., avoiding credit cards with interest if possible.
Prioritize Value Over Just Price
While a lower price is appealing, true value comes from a combination of cost, reliability, customer service, and terms that align with your needs.
A slightly more expensive plan from a highly-rated provider with excellent support might be a better long-term choice than the cheapest option with a history of poor service.
- Check Customer Service Ratings: Use independent review sites like Trustpilot or Ofcom’s customer service reports for energy/broadband to gauge provider reputation.
- Understand Reliability: For broadband, research network uptime and typical speeds in your area. For energy, consider their handling of outages or billing issues.
- Evaluate Perks/Bundles: Sometimes, bundling services can offer savings, but ensure you genuinely need all components of the bundle. Avoid taking on unnecessary services just for a perceived discount.
How to Cancel Allstarutilities.co.uk Subscription If Applicable
Based on the website’s apparent function as a comparison service, it’s unlikely that Allstarutilities.co.uk itself offers a direct “subscription” in the traditional sense that requires cancellation. Their service seems to be more of a one-off comparison tool or lead generation platform. However, if a user has signed up for a newsletter or similar communication, they might wish to unsubscribe. More importantly, if the user proceeded to sign up with a utility provider through Allstarutilities.co.uk, the cancellation process would then pertain to that specific utility provider.
Cancelling Newsletter or Marketing Communications
If you’ve opted into their newsletter or other marketing communications, the process to stop receiving these is standard.
- Locate the “Unsubscribe” Link: Every legitimate marketing email should contain an “unsubscribe” link, usually found at the very bottom of the email.
- Click and Confirm: Click the link and follow the prompts, which typically involve confirming your decision to unsubscribe.
- Check Spam Filters: Ensure your email client isn’t sending their emails to spam, which might prevent you from seeing the unsubscribe link.
If You Signed Up for a Utility Provider
If you used Allstarutilities.co.uk to find a deal and then entered into a contract with a utility provider e.g., an electricity company, a broadband provider, you would need to contact that specific provider directly to cancel your service with them. Allstarutilities.co.uk is merely the intermediary that facilitated the connection. Climgolf.com Reviews
- Identify Your Provider: Refer to your contract, welcome emails, or recent bills from the actual utility provider you signed up with.
- Contact the Provider’s Customer Service:
- Phone: Look for their customer service phone number on their website or your bill.
- Online Account: Many providers allow you to manage your account and initiate cancellations through your online portal.
- Live Chat/Email: Some providers offer these options for customer support.
- Understand Their Cancellation Policy: Each utility provider will have its own terms regarding contract length, early termination fees, and notice periods. Be prepared for these discussions.
- “Cooling-Off” Period: In the UK, consumers typically have a 14-day “cooling-off” period from the date of signing a contract for services like utilities, during which they can cancel without penalty. Check if you are still within this period.
Allstarutilities.co.uk Pricing
As Allstarutilities.co.uk functions as a comparison website, it does not charge users directly for its services.
Instead, its business model is typically based on commissions received from utility providers when a user signs up for a service through their platform.
This means that for the end-user, the service of comparing deals appears to be “free.”
How Comparison Sites Make Money
Understanding the revenue model helps in assessing the potential for bias:
- Referral Fees/Commissions: When you click on a deal on Allstarutilities.co.uk and subsequently sign up with a utility provider, the provider pays a commission to Allstarutilities.co.uk for that referral. This is a standard affiliate marketing model.
- Lead Generation Fees: Some providers may pay a fee for leads, regardless of whether a sign-up occurs.
- Featured Listings: Providers might pay for preferential placement or “featured” spots on the comparison results pages.
Implications for the User
While the direct cost to the user is zero, it’s essential to be aware of the indirect implications: Solardeity.co.za Reviews
- No Direct User Fees: You won’t see a charge from Allstarutilities.co.uk on your bank statement for using their comparison tool.
- Potential for Indirect Costs: The commission model could subtly influence which deals are presented most prominently. While the aim is to show the “best” deals, the definition of “best” might be skewed towards those that offer higher commissions to the comparison site. This means the absolute cheapest or most suitable deal for your specific circumstances might not always be at the top of the list.
- Importance of Due Diligence: Because the service is “free” to the user, it becomes even more critical for the user to perform their own due diligence. Don’t simply accept the first or highest-ranked option. cross-reference deals with other comparison sites or direct provider websites to ensure you’re truly getting the most value.
In essence, the “pricing” for Allstarutilities.co.uk’s service is baked into the deals themselves through a commission structure, which is a common and permissible business practice, provided it’s conducted transparently and doesn’t lead to deceptive outcomes for the consumer.
The key is for consumers to be aware of this model and verify offers independently.
Allstarutilities.co.uk vs. Competitors
When evaluating Allstarutilities.co.uk, it’s helpful to compare it against established players in the UK utility comparison market.
vs. Uswitch.com
Uswitch is arguably the largest and most well-known utility comparison site in the UK.
- Coverage: Uswitch typically covers a much wider range of providers for gas, electricity, broadband, mobile, and also extends into financial products like insurance, credit cards, and loans. Allstarutilities.co.uk appears to have a more focused though expanding utility comparison remit.
- Features: Uswitch offers extensive guides, advice articles, customer reviews, and often exclusive deals. They also have tools like “energy usage calculators” and “broadband speed checkers.” Allstarutilities.co.uk’s homepage indicates basic comparison functionality.
- Transparency: Uswitch has a relatively high degree of transparency regarding how they make money and their accreditation with bodies like Ofgem. Allstarutilities.co.uk provides less immediate detail on its operational transparency.
- User Base: Uswitch benefits from a massive user base and years of operation, leading to more data and, potentially, more refined comparison algorithms.
vs. MoneySuperMarket.com
MoneySuperMarket is another giant in the comparison space, covering a similar breadth of products as Uswitch. Nhcash.com Reviews
- Scope: Like Uswitch, MoneySuperMarket is a general comparison aggregator, not exclusively focused on utilities. It covers insurance, credit cards, mortgages, and various loans, in addition to energy, broadband, and mobile. Allstarutilities.co.uk seems more niche.
- Personalization: MoneySuperMarket offers tools to personalize recommendations based on detailed user input and financial profiles. Allstarutilities.co.uk appears to offer a more basic, direct comparison without deep personalization features immediately visible.
- Brand Recognition: Both Uswitch and MoneySuperMarket have significant marketing budgets and are household names in the UK, contributing to higher perceived trust and reliability. Allstarutilities.co.uk is a newer or less prominent player in this context.
vs. Smaller, Niche Comparators
There are numerous smaller or niche comparison sites that focus on specific regions or types of utilities.
- Focus: These sites might specialize, for instance, only in business energy or regional broadband providers. Allstarutilities.co.uk attempts a broader utility comparison but might not have the depth of a highly specialized site.
- Agility: Smaller sites can sometimes be more agile in adapting to market changes or offering highly specific, curated deals. However, they might also have a smaller pool of providers.
Overall Competitive Stance:
Allstarutilities.co.uk seems to be positioning itself as a user-friendly, straightforward comparison tool. Its strength lies in its simplicity.
However, compared to established market leaders like Uswitch and MoneySuperMarket, it currently appears to lack the breadth of services, advanced features, comprehensive guides, and the same level of brand trust or transparency.
For a user, this means that while Allstarutilities.co.uk might offer a quick glance at deals, it’s advisable to cross-reference with more established platforms or direct provider websites to ensure the most comprehensive and ethical choice. Sharkcordless.co.uk Reviews
Ensuring Ethical Utility Choices
Navigating the utility market can be complex, and making ethical choices is paramount.
Beyond just saving money, it’s about ensuring transparency, fairness, and avoiding practices that could involve undue financial burden or questionable terms.
Focus on Transparent Pricing and Avoiding Riba
The core principle in ethical financial transactions is avoiding riba interest and ensuring complete transparency.
While utility bills themselves are not inherently interest-based, how they are paid and how financial products related to them are structured can be.
- Direct Debit vs. Credit Cards with Interest: Opt for direct debit payments or payment from a current account rather than using credit cards that accrue interest if balances are not paid in full monthly.
- Fixed vs. Variable Rates: Understand the implications of fixed-rate contracts price stability versus variable rates subject to market fluctuations. Neither is inherently unethical, but the terms of change must be transparent.
- No Hidden Fees: Always scrutinize the contract for any hidden charges, late payment penalties, or activation fees that are not clearly disclosed upfront.
Prioritize Environmental Responsibility
Many utility providers now offer “green” tariffs, sourcing electricity from renewable energy or offsetting carbon emissions. M50skiphire.ie Reviews
While not a direct ethical imperative in the same vein as riba, choosing such options aligns with responsible stewardship of resources and concern for the environment, which is highly encouraged.
- Research Green Tariffs: Look for providers that offer 100% renewable electricity or invest in carbon-reducing projects.
- Consider Smart Meter Installation: Smart meters help you monitor your energy consumption in real-time, empowering you to reduce waste and be more mindful of your environmental impact.
- Energy Efficiency: Regardless of your provider, focus on reducing your overall energy consumption through insulation, efficient appliances, and mindful usage. This is both financially smart and environmentally responsible.
Review Customer Service and Complaint Handling
An ethical provider should also demonstrate excellent customer service and a fair process for handling complaints.
Problems can arise, and how a company addresses them speaks volumes about its integrity.
- Check Independent Reviews: Look at Trustpilot, Ofgem’s customer service reports, or reviews on consumer advice sites.
- Complaint Procedures: Understand the provider’s complaint resolution process. Do they have a clear pathway for issues? Are they regulated by an independent ombudsman service like the Energy Ombudsman or Communications Ombudsman?
- Support for Vulnerable Customers: Ethical providers often have specific policies and support for vulnerable customers, such as payment plans for those struggling with bills.
Long-Term Value and Flexibility
Focus on the long-term value rather than just the cheapest initial price.
Sometimes, a slightly higher monthly cost for a more flexible contract or superior service can be more beneficial. Verkada.com Reviews
- Avoid Excessive Lock-ins: Be cautious of overly long contracts e.g., 3+ years with punitive early exit fees, as these can restrict your ability to switch if better or more ethical deals arise.
- Understand Renewal Processes: Know when your contract ends and how the provider will communicate renewal options. Ethical providers should give ample notice and clear choices.
- Bundle with Caution: While bundling services e.g., broadband and TV can offer discounts, ensure you genuinely need all components and that the overall cost remains competitive. Avoid being tied into unnecessary services.
By combining diligent research with an ethical framework, individuals can make informed decisions about their utility providers that not only save money but also align with broader principles of fairness, transparency, and responsible stewardship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Allstarutilities.co.uk?
Allstarutilities.co.uk is a UK-based online comparison service designed to help users find and compare deals on essential utilities like broadband, mobile, gas, and electricity from various providers.
Is Allstarutilities.co.uk a free service to use?
Yes, based on the website, Allstarutilities.co.uk appears to be free for users.
Their business model likely relies on commissions received from utility providers when a user signs up for a service through their platform.
How does Allstarutilities.co.uk make money if it’s free for users?
Allstarutilities.co.uk typically earns money through referral fees or commissions from utility providers.
When a user finds a deal and signs up with a provider through the comparison site, the provider pays Allstarutilities.co.uk a fee.
Does Allstarutilities.co.uk cover all utility providers in the UK?
It’s unlikely that Allstarutilities.co.uk, or any single comparison site, covers every single utility provider in the UK. They usually partner with a selection of major and popular providers.
How accurate are the deals listed on Allstarutilities.co.uk?
The accuracy of deals can vary and fluctuate.
While comparison sites strive to keep information updated, prices and offers change frequently.
It’s always advisable to verify the final details directly with the utility provider.
Can I trust the reviews on Allstarutilities.co.uk’s website?
The homepage mentions “CUSTOMER REVIEWS,” but without direct links to independent, verifiable review platforms, it’s difficult to assess their impartiality.
It’s best to look for reviews on independent sites like Trustpilot or regulated bodies’ reports.
What utilities can I compare on Allstarutilities.co.uk?
According to its homepage, you can compare deals for Gas & Electricity, Broadband & TV, and SIM & Mobile services.
It also mentions “Security,” “Accounting & Law,” and “Benefits & Applications.”
Is Allstarutilities.co.uk regulated by any official body in the UK?
The website does not immediately display information about its regulatory status.
For energy comparison, reputable sites are often accredited by Ofgem.
It’s important to check for such accreditations for impartiality.
How do I switch providers after finding a deal on Allstarutilities.co.uk?
Typically, after finding a deal on a comparison site, you are redirected to the chosen utility provider’s website to complete the sign-up process.
All contract details and the actual switch are then handled directly by the new provider.
What is the “cooling-off” period when switching utility providers?
In the UK, consumers usually have a 14-day “cooling-off” period, starting from the day they agree to a new contract.
During this time, you can cancel the new contract without penalty.
Can Allstarutilities.co.uk help me if I have a problem with my new provider?
No, Allstarutilities.co.uk is a comparison service and not a utility provider.
If you encounter issues with your new utility service, you would need to contact the customer service department of that specific utility provider directly.
Are the “best deals” on Allstarutilities.co.uk truly the best for my needs?
The “best deals” are often based on pricing and popular packages.
However, the true “best” deal for you depends on your specific usage, needs, and preferences e.g., contract length, customer service ratings, green energy options. Always cross-reference.
Does Allstarutilities.co.uk offer personalized advice?
The website mentions “EXPERT ADVICE” via chat/form, suggesting they might offer some guidance.
However, for truly personalized financial or utility advice, consulting an independent financial advisor or a consumer advice charity like Citizens Advice is recommended.
What information do I need to provide to compare deals?
Typically, to get accurate comparisons, you’ll need to provide your postcode, current usage data from bills, and details about your current contract or desired service features.
Are there any hidden fees associated with using Allstarutilities.co.uk?
No, there are no direct hidden fees for using the comparison service itself.
Any fees would be part of the actual utility contract you sign with a provider, which you should always review carefully.
How long does it take to switch utility providers?
Switching times vary by service. Energy switches usually take around 2-3 weeks.
Broadband and mobile switches can also take a few weeks, depending on installation requirements or porting numbers.
What should I do before switching utility providers?
Before switching, understand your current usage, review your existing contract for exit fees, and thoroughly read the terms and conditions of any new deal, paying attention to contract length, price increases, and early termination clauses.
Is it safe to enter my personal information on Allstarutilities.co.uk?
Comparison sites typically use secure connections HTTPS to protect your data.
However, always exercise caution with personal information online.
Check their privacy policy to understand how your data is used.
Does Allstarutilities.co.uk offer business utility comparisons?
Yes, the website mentions “WE TRY TO HELP AND GUIDE ALL THAT COME TO US, WHETHER YOU ARE AN INDIVIDUAL OR A BUSINESS,” suggesting they cater to both residential and business users.
What are some alternatives to using Allstarutilities.co.uk for comparisons?
Alternatives include visiting individual utility provider websites directly, using other reputable comparison sites like Uswitch.com or MoneySuperMarket.com, or consulting independent consumer advice organizations like Citizens Advice.
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