consumers union

I just took action to urge the Federal Communications Commission to investigate how cell phone companies lock handsets to stop cell phone users from keeping their phones if they switch to a new company.  We should be able to take our phones with us when we switch carriers, but most companies use software locks that artificially prevent customers from taking a phone to another company operating a technically compatible network.  

It's simply a way cell phone companies prevent customers from taking their business elsewhere.  Forcing consumers to purchase a new phone whenever they switch companies is unfair, costly and bad for our environment.  Reusing more cell phones instead of throwing them in the trash reduces toxic waste piling up in our landfills.

Groups such as Media Alliance and Consumers Union believe it’s important for people to have their voices heard on this issue.  To send an email just like I did, please go to http://cu.convio.net/reuse 

In the United States alone, over 100 million cell phones are trashed or collect dust each year.  Most of these phones end up in landfills, leaking toxic metals and chemicals into the ground. 

We think forcing consumers to purchase a new phone whenever they switch companies is unfair, wasteful and bad for our environment. 

Take action to reduce cell phone toxic waste. http://cu.convio.net/reuse