AT&T Outage: How Customers Can Get Their Money Back
In the wake of the recent AT&T outage, consumer advocates are encouraging affected customers to take proactive steps in order to receive compensation for the inconvenience caused. Here’s what you need to know.
‘It won’t be our last’
The outage that occurred on Thursday affected tens of thousands of AT&T customers across the country, leaving them without phone service unless connected to Wi-Fi. The outage was not the result of a cyberattack but rather an internal company error as AT&T worked to expand its network.
In response to the incident, AT&T CEO John Stankey stated that the company will compensate the customers and small businesses most affected by the outage. Stankey acknowledged that this is not the first network outage and emphasized that it won’t be the last, highlighting the reality of the telecommunications industry.
AT&T will credit these impacted customers with the average cost of a full day of service. However, it’s important to note that the credit will not apply to AT&T Business Enterprise and Platinum accounts, AT&T prepaid, or Cricket, the company’s low-cost service. For prepaid customers who were affected, AT&T will provide alternative options, although specific details were not disclosed.
Don’t wait for your provider
If you were among the customers impacted by the AT&T outage, consumer advocates recommend taking proactive action rather than waiting for AT&T to determine whether you qualify for a credit. John Breyault, Vice President of Public Policy, Telecommunications, and Fraud at the National Consumers League, advises affected customers to call AT&T customer service and request the credit directly.
Breyault also suggests that customers who prefer not to call can utilize the provider’s online portal or chatbot for a faster resolution. However, it’s important to note that credits provided by phone and internet companies are voluntary. Unlike the airline industry, which is governed by federal law and entitles consumers to refunds in cases of flight cancellations, similar consumer protection does not currently exist for wireless service outages.
Although there is no official regulation mandating compensation for wireless outages, the Federal Communications Commission has proposed a rule that would require rebates for consumers facing programming blackouts on cable or satellite television subscriptions.
In conclusion, if you were affected by the recent AT&T outage, take the initiative to contact AT&T directly to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. While it may take some time, it is worth reaching out to your carrier and asserting your rights as a consumer.
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