4G internet networks can distort television signals, a number of cable companies are warning, Nos television says on Monday.

Some 4G frequencies are the same as some television broadcasters, leading to blocks on the screen or the signal disappearing altogether, Nos says. In Harderwijk, for example, high definition Nederland 1 has been affected, while in Veendam there are problems with Eurosport and BBC1.

Cable companies are advising households to get better insulated cables, which reduce the chance of disturbances.

Harderwijk man Ben van ‘t Slot told the broadcaster the new cables have not improved reception because he can’t change the ones running through his ceiling.

‘It is too ridiculous for words that KPN is rolling out 4G and we are left with the problems,’ he said.

Cable companies expect the disruption to worsen as 4G services are extended, Nos says.