Internet service providers AT&T, Verizon Communications Inc., and Comcast Corporation are all providing internet services for the next 60 days to customers who are unable to pay their bills due to the coronavirus outbreak, reports Black Enterprise. Not only has the trio agreed to not suspend subscribers’ services, but Comcast Xfinity, Charter, and AT&T are also providing free public Wi-Fi for 60 days, according to The Washington Times.
While Comcast’s free public Wi-Fi is limited to public hotspot points and does not include home-based hotspot subscriptions, Charter is offering free broadband for students of college age who are not currently enrolled in a subscription. Mobile service provider, T-Mobile has announced that it will remove data caps for smartphone users and expand data allowances to students and schools.
Ajit Pai, Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), announced the Keep Americans Connected Pledge which calls on telephone and broadband service providers to maintain connectivity for Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic:
Given the coronavirus pandemic and its impact on American society, [[Company Name]] pledges for the next 60 days to:
(1) not terminate service to any residential or small business customers because of their inability to pay their bills due to the disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic;
(2) waive any late fees that any residential or small business customers incur because of their economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic; and
(3) open its Wi-Fi hotspots to any American who needs them.
For more information, visit your service provider’s site.
