Ct. AG to Probe Altice Speeds, Fees, After Getting 500 Complaints

Connecticut's top enforcer will investigate Altice after getting about 500 complaints since 2017 about the cable company’s internet speeds, fees and technical support, Attorney General William Tong (D) said Monday. Altice faces possible violations of the Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act, the AG office said. Many consumers with 300 Mbps or 400 Mbps plans told the AG they didn’t get those speeds, said the office: And the AG is scrutinizing a $3.50 “network enhancement fee” for internet customers. “Our investigation seeks comprehensive records dating back to January 2017 to determine exactly what Altice Optimum knew and what they were doing to deliver the internet speeds and service they promised,” said Tong. “We will not hesitate to hold them accountable.” Bipartisan leaders of Connecticut’s House and Senate technology committees supported the probe. “Households relying on these services for employment, education and entertainment can experience significant harm if they lack reliable internet service,” said the Senate panel’s Chairman Norm Needleman (D). “If Altice Optimum contributed to that harm, they should face the consequences.” Connecticut should thoroughly review consumer complaints, said the same committee’s Ranking Member Paul Formica (R). Frontier Communications settled a similar Connecticut AG probe last summer by agreeing to invest $42.5 million to upgrade DSL to fiber and to end a “hidden” $6.99 monthly internet infrastructure fee (see 2208310057). "Altice shares the state’s goal of ensuring Connecticut residents and businesses receive high-quality service and have a positive customer experience," said the company's spokesperson, noting Altice is deploying a 100% fiber network across the state and earlier this year launched multi-gigabit speeds. "We are proud to serve our Connecticut communities and will cooperate with state officials to provide relevant information."