CRTC Introduces New Rules to Make Internet Plans Easier to Compare

The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission is introducing new rules intended to make it easier for Canadians to compare Internet plans and understand the service they are paying for.

The changes follow amendments to the Telecommunications Act requiring the CRTC to establish additional consumer protections.

The CRTC held a public consultation on how to make shopping for Internet services easier, receiving 77 submissions and hearing from individuals, consumer groups and service providers during a public hearing.

Under the new rules, Internet providers will be required to give consumers clearer and more consistent information when they shop for plans.

Consumers will be able to see the Internet speeds they can expect during the busiest times of day, rather than relying solely on advertised "up to" speeds. Providers will also have to show the monthly price customers will pay after any promotional period ends.

The CRTC says the changes will make it easier for Canadians to compare plans, choose services based on their needs and avoid unexpected costs.

The decision follows several other consumer protection measures introduced by the CRTC, including eliminating extra fees on Internet and cellphone plans, improving notifications about expiring contracts and giving customers more flexibility to change or cancel plans.

The regulator is also reviewing its Consumer Protection Codes, with the goal of simplifying and combining them into a single code.

“Canadians deserve clear information about speeds and prices when shopping for Internet services,” said Vicky Eatrides, chairperson and CEO of the CRTC. “Today's decision will make it easier for people to compare plans, know what to expect, and choose the service that is right for them.”