The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), a crucial initiative that provided discounted internet services to millions of American households, has officially ended on June 1, 2024, due to the cessation of congressional funding. This consumer advisory serves to inform individuals and families about the program’s conclusion and to warn against potential misinformation and scams that may arise in its wake.
It’s important to be aware that some internet service providers may not have updated their websites and marketing materials to reflect the ACP’s termination. This means you might still encounter websites that incorrectly suggest the ACP is ongoing or are still collecting personal information for ACP enrollment. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has issued a warning regarding these deceptive practices.
Protect Yourself from Misinformation and Potential Scams
If you come across any website claiming to offer ACP benefits or requesting your personal information for ACP enrollment after February 8, 2024, exercise extreme caution. The FCC urges consumers to file a complaint immediately through their Consumer Complaint Center at fcc.gov/complaints. This action helps the FCC track and address these misleading websites, protecting other consumers.
For those who may have already entered sensitive personal data such as social security numbers, credit card details, or bank account information on websites purporting to offer ACP enrollment after February 8, 2024, immediate action is necessary. Visit IdentityTheft.gov for detailed guidance on the specific steps to take to safeguard your identity and financial information based on the type of information you may have shared.
Understanding the End of the ACP and Next Steps
The discontinuation of the Affordable Connectivity Program is a direct result of the lack of renewed funding from Congress. This has brought an end to the program that played a vital role in making broadband internet accessible and affordable for households across the nation, supporting work, education, healthcare, and essential online services.
Households enrolled in the ACP are strongly advised to carefully review all communications from their internet service provider and the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), the entity administering the ACP. These notices will provide crucial information on how the program’s end will affect your internet service and billing moving forward. It is also highly recommended to contact your internet service provider directly to discuss your account and explore available options now that the ACP benefit has concluded.
For comprehensive details and further information regarding the conclusion of the ACP, please refer to the official resource website: AffordableConnectivity.gov.
The Impact of the Affordable Connectivity Program
The Affordable Connectivity Program was instrumental in bridging the digital divide by offering eligible households a monthly discount of up to $30 on internet service, and up to $75 per month for those residing on qualifying Tribal lands. Furthermore, the program provided an opportunity for eligible households to receive a one-time discount of up to $100 towards the purchase of a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers, with a minimal contribution required from the household. Each household was limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount under the ACP.
While the ACP Resource Archive remains available, it is crucial to understand that the program itself has ended, and new enrollments or benefit extensions are no longer possible. Stay informed, be vigilant against misinformation, and take the necessary steps to manage your internet service in the absence of the Affordable Connectivity Program.
