At CNET, we extensively cover different ways to lower your internet bill. But one major factor that is often overlooked is how you can protect yourself from internet pricing traps. According to a CNET survey, over 63% of adults in the US saw their internet prices increase last year. Even worse, more than half of those who complained about their bill increasing still experienced unreliable internet. Why and how does this happen?
Many of the top internet service providers hike their prices after the promo period ends, a common pricing trap that occurs in the broadband world. In some cases, you might also sign up for enticing promotional offers from your ISP, only to find out a year later that the standard rates have doubled your monthly bill. ISPs don't make it easy to find the necessary information, but this guide should help shield you from falling into internet pricing traps.
So... your internet bill doubled
You've probably found yourself in this scenario: You recently moved into a new home and want to set up internet service. You tried signing up online, but for some reason, you're being asked to call the internet service provider’s customer service hotline instead. You hop on the call and want to sign up for the lowest speed tier, but the customer service representative recommends you go with a plan with more speed.
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The rep tells you all about the added benefits of going with the faster plan. The monthly price is decent for the speeds you’re getting. You’re hesitant but excited to try out the free streaming service promotion. You sign the contract. A little over a year passes and you notice your monthly bill has doubled in price. Sound familiar?
No, you're not imagining things, so you call your internet provider. It explained that the price increase was because the promotional rates you were first offered had expired. On top of the price increase in your monthly bill, the faster plan came with an HBO Max subscription that you're now paying for in full. You’re frustrated and ask yourself, "How did I get here?"
Locating local internet providers
There are different pricing traps, some more obvious than others. The scenario above is just one example. But you don’t have to fall prey to these schemes. Read on for some tips you can use to avoid these broadband pricing traps.
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