Some customers using VoIP services, also known as voice-over-Internet protocol services, are in danger of having their services terminated. Because of several incidences where 911 calls did not go through via VoIP services, some feel the service is risky. A number of customers are even threatening to file lawsuits against their VoIP providers because their 911 calls did not reach the emergency line, causing medical complications and in several instances, causing death.
VoIP providers are furious that they are given the blame for these unfortunate situations. They say that the problem lies in the customers’ hands. When people first sign up as a VoIP customer, they are given the instructions to configure their 911 service before use. Providers are saying that the customers are not following these instructions for 911 configurations and that is why the 911 service would not properly function through the VoIP provider. The FCC is not concerned with who is to blame and has demanded that VoIP providers e-mail all customers with the requirement that they read the restrictions of 911 services provided.
What is VoIP?
VoIP is a service where phone calls can be placed over the computer network. It works by using either a regular telephone with an adapter that plugs into the computer or by attaching a microphone to the computer. Once a number is dialed, the signal moves from the phone, to the VoIP provider, over the Internet, and then back to the phone service on the other end of the call. With most VoIP providers, the person you are calling does not need to have the VoIP service. It may sound complicated, but it makes communicating easy. Some VoIP services save people tons of money by making long distance and international calls through their Broadband Internet Connection.
Which Services May Be Terminated?
VoIP providers are now required to get all of their customers to acknowledge the restrictions of 911 services that VoIP providers offer. An e-mail was sent out to every VoIP customer with a link included that they must visit. This link leads to an article describing the limits of the 911 services through VoIP. If the customer does not open the link and acknowledge they have read this article by responding to the VoIP provider’s e-mail, their service will be terminated with their VoIP provider.
