comshaft strikes again

[Mark Richards]

Matthew Gillen wrote:
> Always trying to one-up Verizon, Comcast has cut off *all* of USENET to
> their broadband customers:
> http://www.comcast.net/newsgroups
>

Are there no more principles left for the public internet?  Comcast has 
already violated the principle of open access.  With this move they come 
closer to biting the FCC in the ass once more.

The very first statement in the FCC's "Internet Policy" reads:

"To encourage broadband deployment and preserve and promote the open and 
interconnected nature of the public Internet, consumers are entitled to 
access the lawful Internet content of their choice."

http://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/FCC-05-151A1.pdf


That the current maladministration would act at all in the public 
interest is notable and naturally suggests other intent, such as 
propping up Verizon because they're a dues-paying member of the club. 
Just ask the former CEO of Southwestern Bell what happens when you don't 
pay and play.  The FCC's concern over Comcast's first violation suggests 
they may not go easy over this one, or at least may have additional 
political leverage to squeeze some Comcast testicle.

However, Comcast has given themselves an out.  Whilst shutting off their 
own servers they are not (yet) blocking access to third party providers. 
  They can then claim to be a good player on the public internet while 
not operating with a full deck.

I'll be writing the FCC and Congress suggesting that the clamps be 
further squeezed.  Comcast's action may well be seen as a violation of 
the basic founding principles of the public internet and the FCC's 
stated policy.

Why is it that cable companies are run like organized crime rackets?  Is 
the cashflow just too good?

/m