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Ameritech Customers Ripped Off?

Consumers in Illinois are being ripped off by their local telephone company, claims the Telecom Resellers Association (TRA) in a complaint filed with the Illinois Commerce Commission and reported on here. Evidently Ameritech binds its customers with contracts, often without the knowledge of the consumer. When the customer decides to switch phone service, he or she is hit with outrageous termination fees. In its complaint, the TRA asks that Ameritech be prohibited from penalizing consumers when it interferes with their freedom of choice or when Ameritech fails to produce a valid, signed contract. What does that mean for consumers? Read the fine print and never order service via phone without receiving a physical contract. Don't be pressured into services that you don't want or need. As the competition heats up in local telephone access, be prepared for a bewildering array of choices and marketing tactics. Most companies to NOT require a contract for services, but they do require your permission. As always, consumer beware.

Thu, 16 Mar 2000 07:36:36 -0800