The Federal Trade Commission and Federal Communications Commission plan to enter a memorandum of understanding to coordinate efforts to protect internet consumers in line with the adoption of FCC’s proposed Restoring Internet Freedom Order.FTC said Monday the draft MoU directs FCC to review informal protests on the compliance of internet service providers with disclosure obligations set by the proposed rule.
The transparency requirements include the public release of information on an ISP’s practices regarding content blocking, throttling, paid prioritization, and congestion management.
Under the draft agreement, FTC will investigate and take appropriate action against ISPs that carry out deceptive or unfair practices involving their broadband services.
FTC and FCC will also work together on consumer and industry outreach and education as well as exchange legal and technical expertise, including the sharing of informal complaints on the Restoring Internet Freedom Order.
FCC will hold a meeting on Dec. 14 to vote on the proposed order, which would repeal internet regulations implemented in 2015 in an effort to give FTC the authority to protect consumers and promote ISP competition.
