The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provided monthly discounts on broadband services, ended on June 1, 2024, due to a lack of Congressional funding. This program was crucial in helping eligible households afford the internet service necessary for work, school, healthcare, and more. This article provides important information regarding the program’s conclusion and steps to take if you encounter misleading information online.
Websites Falsely Advertising Affordable Internet Services
Despite the program’s termination, some internet service providers have not updated their websites and marketing materials. Some sites continue to advertise the ACP and even collect personal information from consumers seeking enrollment. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has issued warnings about these misleading practices.
Protect Yourself from Misinformation about Affordable Internet Options
If you encounter a website claiming to offer ACP benefits or requesting personal information for ACP enrollment after its termination date, exercise caution. It’s vital to verify the legitimacy of such claims. The FCC recommends filing a complaint through their Consumer Complaint Center at fcc.gov/complaints.
If you’ve already submitted personal information, such as your social security number, credit card details, or banking information, to a website offering ACP enrollment after February 8, 2024, you should take immediate action to protect yourself from potential identity theft. Visit IdentityTheft.gov for guidance on the steps to take based on the information you shared.
Understanding the Impact of the ACP’s End on Affordable Internet Access
Households previously enrolled in the ACP should carefully review any notices received from their internet provider and the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), the program administrator. These communications should provide details regarding the end of the ACP and its impact on your internet service and billing. Contacting your internet provider directly is also recommended to understand how the program’s termination affects your specific situation and to explore alternative affordable internet options.
Review of the Affordable Connectivity Program and its Benefits
The ACP played a significant role in bridging the digital divide by providing Affordable Internet Services to eligible households. It offered a discount of up to $30 per month toward internet service and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. Additionally, eligible households could receive a one-time discount of up to $100 for purchasing a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers with a partial contribution towards the purchase price.
The program was limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household. For more information about the concluded ACP, refer to AffordableConnectivity.gov. While the ACP is no longer active, understanding its previous benefits highlights the importance of continued efforts to ensure affordable internet access for all.
