AT & T, a telephone company was recently fined by FCC for wrongful billing of the customers, an amount $7.75 Million though it is not the first time that FCC or Federal Communications Commission has demanded a fine from AT & T. Previous year also they were punished for unlimited data services plan which they promised their customers, that time the amount was pretty high, $100 Million. This time because of some cheaters, who processed bills with extra amount of money, AT & T was fined.
What’s the sham?
According to the sources, there were two unauthorized third party companies, Enhanced Telecommunications Services and Discount Directory Inc. in Cleveland area who in name of a directory service charged the landline customers of AT & T with $9 each month. The customers were basically paying for a service which they have neither availed nor were subscribed for. This fraud came into view while investing on the alliance of these companies in drug trafficking activities. And because of this unlawful activity and unnecessary harassment of the customers,
FCC fined AT & T.
$6.8 Million of fine was for refunding the customers and the remaining $950,000 was for US Treasury as Federal fine.
Precautions taken
With these repetitive fines, AT & T has become a bit more careful. Now the company will embrace strict rules and guidelines which will protect the interests of both the company and its customers. Now any third party will have to provide ample proof to get a nod. Multiple stances are being taken in order to process legitimate and authorized bills. There are certain safeguards by FCC which should be implemented in need. AT & T has stopped taking money for shamed directory in June 2015 and will refund ASAP.
