On January 31, 2020 the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC)’s new Internet Code (Code) will come into effect. The Code is a mandatory code of conduct for Internet service providers of retail fixed Internet access services for individual customers. According to the CRTC, the Code will make it easier for Canadians to understand their Internet service contracts, to prevent bill shock from overage fees and price increases and to make it easier for Canadians to switch Internet service providers (ISPs).
The Code will apply to large facilities-based ISPs that provide retail fixed Internet access services such as Bell Canada (including Bell MTS, NorthernTel, and Télébec), Rogers, Cogeco, Sasktel, Videotron, Eastlink, Shaw Telecom, Xplornet and Northwestel. The Code will apply to all renewed, amended, or extended contracts. Certain provisions related to the clarity of communication will also apply to existing contracts to ensure that customers have the necessary information to make informed decisions.
For more information on the Internet Code, please see the CRTC website here.
Summary By: Jae S. Morris
E-TIPS® ISSUE
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