FCC puts restrictions on '900' services, moves on caller-identification systems

Article Abstract:

The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) restricts '900' telephone services and considers the regulation of caller-identification services. The 900 industry, estimated to be worth $1 billion in revenue in 1991, has provoked many customer complaints. Some customers say they are not properly informed about costs. Others are upset because their children call 900 numbers without permission. The FCC has therefore ruled that 900 services must include a message that identifies the provider and the service provided, and when the cost of a call will be more than $2, information about the cost must be included as well. The FCC will also require that customers be provided with a way to prevent their phones from being used to call 900 services. The FCC seeks public comment concerning proposed rules for regulation of caller-identification services. Some consumer advocates view such services as a form of wiretapping, saying that callers' rights to privacy are violated.

Telephone communications, exc. radio, Telephone companies, Privacy, Telephone Company, Government Regulation, Audiotex, Audiotext services, Caller ID telephone service, Caller ID, Automatic Number Identification (Telecommunications)

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House says 'Sorry, wrong number' to telephone sales

Article Abstract:

The House passes legislation that targets unwanted sales calls and 'junk faxes.' The Telephone Advertising Consumer Rights Act, sponsored by Edward Markey (D-MA), requests recommendations from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to be provided within four months concerning ways to prevent unsolicited calls. Possible methods to accomplish this include creating lists or data bases of names of people who do not want to receive calls. The bill would prevent telemarketers from using automatic dialing machines to place calls on lines used for emergency purposes, and it would prohibit calls to pagers or beepers, or to cellular telephones. The legislation would not apply to nonprofit organizations. President Bush might veto the bill.

Business services, not elsewhere classified, Legislative bodies, Political activity, Telemarketing, United States. Congress. House, Markey, Edward J., Legislative process, Telecommunications, Facsimile, Legislation, Automatic Dialing

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FCC proposes to reserve frequencies for interactive service on television

Article Abstract:

The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) envisions splitting the 500 KHz in the 218.0 to 218.5 MHz spectrum into two 250 KHz sections that will be used for interactive television. The two separate segments will allow two interactive services to compete with one another, and the FCC is examining whether or not this will be enough to meet future needs. Industry observers note that around 92 million US households have televisions, which leaves the potential for interactive television wide open. The FCC responds favorably to the possibilities of interactive television but raises the concern that it may interfere with channel 13, which runs between 210 and 216 MHz.

COMMUNICATION, Interactive television, Government Agency, Interactive Systems, Frequency

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