Intenet Provider Promotional Rates: Trick or Treat?
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The popularity of high speed internet is undeniable. It seems every member of the household is logging in and zooming down the information highway. But do we really understand why we have to have it?
Cable, DSL, and Fiber Optic providers are selling speed, convenience, and affordability in Triple Service Packages, that include your television, phone,and internet services at rock bottom prices. Or so they seem. The lure of superfast, supercheap internet connectivity for only $10 a month draws users like moths to the flame, that is until the flame is snuffed out only a few months down the road. When consumers make quick decisions without understanding the agreements, the consumer loses.
Initial rates of $9.99 per month triples to $29.99 in six months, adding not only the extra cost, but more taxes, surcharges, and other hidden fees. Soon, the sweet deal has soured and the affordability of superfast connectivity is a thing of past.
Sounds easy enough to get out of, right? Just call your provider and cancel your service. That’s when you are infomed by a representative that you entered in to a 2 year contract, and there is a costly penalty to break the contract. This is a clear example of how Internet providers are padding their wallet with your money.
With so many daily activities, many of us don’t even use our broadband connection on a daily, weekly, or sometimes monthly basis, giving these companies even more of a profit gain. While ignorance may be bliss, some providers are making their consumer’s ignorance the punchline in their catch advertising.
What’s the fix? Education. By reading the fine print of the agreeements you enter into, prioritizing your needs, and understanding what you can do to fix a problem or get out of the contract are key to your consumer satisfaction. As time is money, time educating yourself to the terms of a contract saves money and frustration.
Taking advantage of promotions is a great money saving tip, as long as those promotions don’t come with a long term contract. Look for providers that have special offers that don’t require a long term contract, and when the promotional period is over, you can then determine if you are happy with your service or if you’re ready to move on. If you opt to change your service provider, look again for providers with promo savings minus a long contract.
Being alert and careful with your wallet is our consumer responsibility. Keeping an eye on these superfast internet providers saves not only hassle, but also money out of your pocket. This step is the first in to finding ways for nationwide availability of affordable high speed internet, and taking on the global market that offers 5 times the speed at a fraction of the cost.
