This was a major lawsuit filed against Optimum and Suddenlink Communications in 2021, alleging they misled customers about hidden fees and charges associated with broadband internet and television services.
Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
Plaintiffs’ Arguments:
- Network Fees: The lawsuit claimed Optimum and Suddenlink charged hidden “Network Fees” and “Network Access Surcharges” on top of advertised broadband internet service prices.
- TV Fees: Similarly, “Broadcast Station Programming Surcharges” and “Sports Programming Surcharges” were allegedly added to television service without clear disclosure.
- Misleading Marketing: The plaintiffs argued that Optimum and Suddenlink failed to adequately inform customers about these additional fees in their advertising and marketing materials.
Settlement:
- In November 2022, the companies reached a $3.75 million settlement with the plaintiffs to resolve the lawsuit.
- The settlement provided various forms of relief to affected customers, including:
- Credit monitoring and identity theft protection: Two years of these services were offered to eligible class members.
- Reimbursement for documented losses: Those who incurred out-of-pocket expenses due to the hidden fees, such as costs for additional credit monitoring or fees to remove negative credit reporting, could seek reimbursement up to $10,000.
- Cash payments for lost time: Class members could receive up to $125 for time spent addressing issues related to the hidden fees.
Eligibility:
- You were eligible for the settlement if you received broadband internet service and/or television service from Optimum or Suddenlink between July 27, 2018, and May 5, 2023, and were charged the disputed Network Fees or TV Fees during that period.
Current Status:
- The deadline to submit claims for the settlement has passed (as of today, December 16, 2023).
- If you missed the deadline or have any further questions about the settlement, you can visit the official settlement website for more information: https://optimumsuddenlinkfeesettlement.com/
