How to Report Your Internet Provider to the FCC or FTC?

Internet service providers are one of the most disliked or complained about industries in the U.S., according to the American Customer Service Index (ACSI) over the last decade. Customers often complain about:

• High prices
• Slow unreliable service
• Lack of variety in internet plans
• Unresponsive or dissatisfactory customer service

If you have also experienced slow speeds, price hikes, and a frustrating customer service experience with your internet service provider, we are here to offer a solution for your problem. Instead of wasting your time calling your provider’s customer support to reach a dead end, report your complaint to the FCC or FTC.

This blog provides a step-by-step guide on how you can file a complaint with these authorities and the difference between the FCC and FTC.

So, before you get hopelessly disappointed by the current state of affairs, try taking this solid route!

What is FCC?

The Federal Communications Commission is a U.S. government agency responsible for regulating national and international communication channels, including TV, radio, cell phone service, satellite, wired, and wireless internet. By overseeing communication law and technological advancements, the FCC is considered the highest authority when it comes to any communication issues. All ISPs come under this commission and are accountable to it.

What is FTC?

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is aimed at protecting consumer rights and ensuring lawful practices to minimize deception, fraud, and unfair business practices. The FTC investigates a complaint and takes legal action against the perpetrators to maintain fair trading within the country.

How are the FCC and FTC Different?

The FCC is restricted to the telecommunications industry, noting down complaints against internet and cable service providers and implementing policies in that domain only. The FTC, on the other hand, is responsible for all trade and commerce-related complaints. The FCC mostly resolves all communication complaints under its authority; however, for issues related to false claims, unfair promises, fraudulent billing, or debt collection harassment, the FTC steps in.

How to File an FCC Complaint?

You can file a complaint via the online portal of the FCC Consumer Inquiries and Complaints Center. This portal is very user-friendly and helps users submit all the necessary documents for the complaint to be processed quickly. Make sure you have documented evidence and a description of your complaint with your internet service provider before you start filing your complaint with the FCC, since the FCC will process complaints that were overlooked by your provider only.

In your complaint, you must include:

• Your complete issue and the prior complaint lodged with your ISP
• Your complete contact information
• Any supporting documents for your claims

You can get in touch with FCC in the following ways:

• Online portal
• Phone number (1-888-225-5322)
• Mail (Federal Communications Commission, Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau, Consumer Inquiries and Complaints Division, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554)

How to File an FTC Complaint?

Filing an FTC complaint is similar to filing an FCC complaint; simply follow the same steps on the FTC portal instead of the FCC portal. If your complaint includes fraudulent billing, false marketing claims, or such, filing a complaint with the FTC should help.

Why File a Complaint to the FCC or FTC?

Filing a complaint to the FCC or FTC is completely free of cost, and you right to get justice. Not only will you get accountability for any malpractice by your ISP, but you will have greater transparency, your rights will be protected, and there will be no hassle in the process.

So instead of being manipulated and exploited by a provider who does not offer the promised speeds, increases prices every now and then, and has a dissatisfactory customer service that does not respond to complaints, it's best to get the right help!