Verizon has requested that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) eliminate the existing rule that mandates the unlocking of phones after a 60-day period. In a letter to the FCC, noted by LightReading, the company argued that this unlocking requirement “benefits bad actors and fraudsters.”
This unlocking rule was first established by the FCC following Verizon’s acquisition of C-Block spectrum in 2008, compelling the company to allow customers to switch to a different carrier after purchasing a phone. This requirement aimed to facilitate easier transitions compared to services from other providers.
Currently, however, Verizon seeks to extend the unlocking timeframe, referring to the FCC’s existing policy as “outdated regulation that has become both burdensome and harmful.” The company contends that abolishing the rule is in line with the FCC’s recent efforts to eliminate “unnecessary” regulations.
Verizon also noted that “recent industry experience shows that even a lock of 60 days does not deter device fraud,” indicating that the common standard for carriers not bound by the 60-day unlocking rule is now a minimum of six months.
“Removing this requirement will benefit consumers as it will enable Verizon to continue providing subsidies and other options that make phones more affordable,” the company stated. “It will also enhance competition by leveling the playing field that currently exists.”
