USA - Consumers held hostage complain that ISP have modified limits on Internet usage against the interests of consumers

[prnewswire] ConsumersHeldHostage.org claims to have uncovered sneaky policy changes by major Internet Service Providers (ISPs) who are placing new limits on paid Internet usage. This organization views these policy changes as classic anti-consumer behavior due to the fact that these limits do NOT apply to the ISPs' proprietary services.

These policy changes reduce the amount of activity the ISPs' customers are allowed on their own paid Internet connection, as opposed to net neutrality which deals with content, instead of amount. However, these limits don't apply when using the Internet Providers' own TV and phone services which are delivered over the same connection.
As an example, if a viewer watches just one Netflix or Hulu video the meter is quickly turning. But when using the Providers' TV service it's okay to run every TV in the house, 24/7, with no penalty. Or, there is unlimited calling with the Internet Providers' voice service, but pick up a Vonage phone and the meter is running.
The penalties for exceeding these limits include surcharges or service being turned off. ConsumersHeldHostage.org observes that these moves are an increase in rates with a decrease in service which, in any economy, would cause distress but in these difficult times are a colossal burden. This organization strongly believes that if consumers do not take a stand and fight back immediately there will be huge consequences resulting in the loss of Internet freedom.

Most people don't stop to think about how important the Internet has become to everyday life. A vast multitude of activities require Internet access - from watching videos using services like Netflix and YouTube, to listening to music using iTunes, to making phone calls with Vonage or Skype, to checking and sending email, to playing games, to accessing favorite social media services like Facebook or Twitter, to performing online banking, to checking favorite stock quotes. And the list keeps growing.

The simple truth is the Internet is a requirement for a huge list of growing devices beyond just a computer. Some of these Internet-hungry devices include tablets, gaming systems, smartphones, set-top boxes, TVs, DVD players, GPS's and even some appliances.

ConsumersHeldHostage.org is building a grassroots resistance, uniting consumers by providing leadership and an aggressive plan to stop this outrageous behavior. Their goal is to work with consumers to put mass pressure on companies to adopt more consumer-friendly policies. The organization accomplishes this task through the Internet community and the media. When appropriate it also works with law firms and regulators. Their voice, influence and effectiveness grows stronger with every Net citizen who joins them. ConsumersHeldHostage.org insists that Internet freedom might become a part of history if consumers don't unite behind their plan to stop this abuse.