FCC asks for consumer input on their Internet

The Federal Communications Commission today announced it will begin collecting first-hand accounts on broadband availability and service quality directly from consumers as part of its Broadband Data Collection program. A new webpage, www.fcc.gov/BroadbandData, explains the FCC's program and provides direct links to consumer resources including a new "share your broadband experience" option.

The US has had a digital divide for years, with there being a chasm between the quality of internet in cities vs rural areas. The global pandemic, and the unprecedented reliance on the internet for remote work and learning, has emphasized how large the digital divide really is. Hopefully the FCC's efforts will help close it, and ensure all households have access to high-speed internet.

"Far too many Americans are left behind in access to jobs, education, and healthcare if they do not have access to broadband," acting FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel said in a statement announcing the initiative. "Collecting data from consumers who are directly affected by the lack of access to broadband will help inform the FCC's mapping efforts and future decisions about where service is needed."

Instead of ranting to a friend or family member, the complaint sent to the FCC may have significant changes and improvement on one's internet connection in the coming years, particularly as a study is conducted. The federal agency is looking into improving internet connection across the country by updating its broadband maps in certain locations.

Read more -here-

• A ransomware group claims to have breached 'all Sony systems'
• Microsoft's Activision Blizzard deal gets preliminary approval from UK regulator
• Spectrum and Qualcomm are releasing a next-gen advanced Wi-Fi 7 router
• T-Mobile app users saw credit card numbers, addresses from other accounts
• FTC says Microsoft leaked its own Xbox plans
• Microsoft AI researchers expose 38TB of sensitive data via SAS tokens