The Federal Communications Commission proposed a $25,000 fine against Hilton for its apparent obstruction of an investigation into whether Hilton engaged in the blocking of consumers’ Wi-Fi devices. The Bureau directs Hilton to immediately provide essential information and documents about its Wi-Fi management practices and warns the company that it may face a significantly higher fine for any continued obstruction or delay.
“Hotel guests deserve to have their Wi-Fi blocking complaints investigated by the Commission,” said Travis LeBlanc, Chief of the FCC Enforcement Bureau. “To permit any company to unilaterally redefine the scope of our investigation would undermine the independent search for the truth and the due administration of the law.”
The Communications Act prohibits persons and companies from maliciously blocking Wi-Fi communications and urges accommodation establishments to review their practices to ensure that there is no unlawful blocking of Wi-Fi communications.