Consumer Action Slams Netflix Over Slowing Speeds

Consumer Action is taking Netflix to the woodshed over the video site's slowing of traffic for some wireless Internet service providers but not others and without informing either the companies or their subscriber. That could run afoul of new Open Internet rules if ISPs were the ones slowing the traffic, but edge providers like Netflix are not covered by the rules.

Consumer Action has recently come out in favor of Federal Communications Commission proposals on unlocking set-tops and new rules for broadband customer proprietary network information (CPNI), both of which are opposed by ISPs. But in the case of Netflix, it says ISPs are the ones getting the short end of the stick, joining a host of critics that have weighed in since the practice was first revealed. "Netflix’s underhanded tactics deceive customers and cast aspersions on Internet providers," the group said. "Netflix’s recent admission that it has been automatically degrading the picture quality for AT&T and Verizon wireless customers is surprising and concerning," said Ken McEldowney, executive director of Consumer Action. He also said it was a bit bewildering. "Not only does this action demonstrate a complete lack of transparency with customers, but the news is also confusing: Netflix settings have long allowed users to choose their own preferred balance of picture quality vs. data usage." And Consumer Action was not just concerned about the impact on consumers, but the harm the misimpression the practice could leave inflicts on ISPs.