archives from December, 2000

"Slamming" is when your phone service provider is changed without your permission. It is illegal, but in the past there was not much consumers could do to get even with the companies who slammed them. Now the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has new rules that apply to slamming violations that occur on or after November 28, 2000.

You don't have to pay for the first 30 days of services billed by the slammer. After 30 days, charges for any services used need to be paid to your authorized company (the company you had selected before the slammer switched you), but at that company's rates, not the slammer's rates.

If you are concerned about getting slammed, ask your local phone company if they can put a freeze on your account. This will not allow service to be switched unless you inform the local phone company that it is OK.

To learn more about the FCC rules and information on filing a complaint, click here for details