TORONTO – “It’s a start.”
That’s how many Canadian consumers are responding to a new wireless code of conduct, meant to address some of the key concerns Canadian’s voiced about their cellphone contracts.
Overall, it seems that Canadians are generally pleased with the outcome of the wireless code, introduced by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) Monday – however many are still concerned that their cellphone providers will still take advantage of them in the end.
When asked how they felt about the wireless code, some responded with a touch of animosity.
“It’s a beginning, that’s all. When we catch up to third world countries I’ll be happy,” responded Twitter user @Cavemanbiff.
“How about legislation that forces cell companies to be honest in their advertisement,” suggested Twitter user @cgyflames86.
Others were not impressed by the code, “It’s still a joke,” Jonathan Hodder responded on Global News’ Facebook page.
Included in the wireless code is the right for a customer to cancel their contract with a telecom provider after two years without a fee – one of the most talked about issues during the wireless code hearings, in which consumers were interviewed.
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Among cancellation fees, the code also ends “bill shock” by capping extra data charges, at $50 per month, and international data roaming charges at $100 per month.
Providers must also allow customers to unlock their devices after 90 days, or if they pay outright for the device, under the code.
“I don’t plan on upgrading my phone until the New Year, so the 2 year contract will be welcome when that phone needs updating,” Scott Adams told Global News in an email.
Adams noted that while he is happy with the changes to the wireless code, he thinks the data cap charges could be lower and he is concerned that wireless providers will try to make up for shorter contracts with more fees.
“I am worried that monthly plans may increase to offset the shorter terms,” said Adams.
Others shared Adams’ concerns online.
“The question this immediately brings to mind is: Am I going to have to pay more up front since they don’t have me roped in for three years,” said Derek Taylor on Global News’ Facebook page.
Read More: Canadian consumers left reeling from customer service nightmares with telecoms
Even those who are very familiar with telecom company’s inner workings agree that while the changes are a step in the right direction, consumers have a right to be concerned about loopholes.
“Having worked in the telecom industry for 10 years, this news is music to my ears. It’s about time we gave consumers the freedom to make choices based on their needs and not because they are “committed” to us,” said Marissa Anwar.
Anwar, who worked for Rogers for ten years, has kept a close eye on the telecom market since leaving the company.
She also noted that while two year contracts are a positive move for customers, they are nothing new.
“Essentially all we are doing is taking a step back four years,” said Anwar, who noted that two-year contracts were the norm until telecom companies began extending the length of contracts.
Anwar also noted that because the code will not take effect until Dec. 2, 2013, some customers are still going to be locked into three year contracts.
This is a concern that was brought up multiple times when Global News asked for feedback about the code.
A CRTC spokesperson told Global News that the decision to wait until December to put the wireless code into place was to ensure that the industry had enough time to get new policies into place.
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