Experts say broadband internet users should monitor their broadband usage to avoid paying extra fees as more cable companies impose so-called "data caps" on their home internet subscriptions.
Are data limits really necessary?
For example, on January 1, Comcast began capping households at 1.2 terabytes of data per month. Other broadband companies are also reducing their customers’ data caps. While a terabyte or more is enough data for many people, some users may exceed these limits and face fines.
“Americans are paying for the cable companies' lack of investment,” said Mark Chen, owner of Bill Smart, a firm that negotiates between customers and Internet providers, in an email interview.
“With more people working from home and streaming, the cable companies’ systems are under a lot of strain. They’re overcharging power users (which is what we’re all doing now) to get them to use less data or give them more money.”
