Over the past months information has been shared with the Office of the Massachusetts Attorney General related to potential Violations of Chapter 93A of the Massachusetts General Laws (MGL). In short, this is due to communications via cold call Emails sent from the Verizon Business Group to customers stating:

“Subject Line: Verizon Landline Retirement” and further stating that “there’s going to be a changeover with the retirement of our legacy copper lines at the end of 2022″…”and make sure there won’t be any issues during transition”.

And to further compound the misrepresentation, it was suggested to consumers that Verizon Wireless should be considered as a replacement for copper lines. Verizon Wireless Service does not have the same regulatory oversight for consumers when compared to landline/copper. As of now it is unknown how many consumers, either Churches, Banks, Retail Businesses or Residential, were contacted by Verizon with that announcement nor how many acted upon the solicitation. We know several were absolutely contacted in Western Massachusetts. When I say “we”, I mean as high up as the New England Director – Network Operations Global Network & Technology, Abraham Pinales. Mr. Pinales was made aware of this activity prior to the Attorney General receiving information. It is unknown as of this time what, if anything, Mr. Pinales did with the information when he was notified some 9 months ago.

What is known: The announcement by Verizon was misleading and incorrect. While there are areas in the Commonwealth wherein the Copper Network has been phased out due to technological changes, none have been granted in Western MA. The AG’s Office has received information and is reviewing. It has been in contact with Verizon. No official nor unofficial investigation has been ordered.

In order to assist any Governmental or Regulatory Authority in making a determination to order an investigation into potential unfair practices or unlawful methods; any party who received such information as well as those who acted on misleading information may contact:

Attorney General’s Office Consumer Advocacy & Response Division, Consumer Hotline at (617) 727-8400 or go to www.mass.gov/how-to/file-a-consumer-complaint.

All additional inquiries should be made to: IBEW Local 2324 Business Manager, John Rowley Sr. at ibew2324@verizon.net or call 413-734-0863.

Additional information will be updated here in the near future and as warranted.