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AT&T Backs Off Controversial Service Terms

Telecom's ToS had forbidden customers from criticizing it

By Jason Farago,  Newser Staff

Posted Oct 11, 2007 10:15 AM CDT

(Newser) – Under an ironic firestorm of criticism for what some termed a First Amendment violation, AT&T has updated its controversial Terms of Service policy to allow users to criticize the telecom giant. The original terms stated that it reserved the right to cancel the account of those who "damaged the name or reputation of AT&T."

Ars Technica reports that AT&T, whose business has boomed since the introduction of the iPhone, found its hand forced after bloggers discovered a provision in contracts that forbade them from bashing the company. A company spokesman apologized for the confusion and stated that they "will never terminate a customer's service for criticizing AT&T."

iPhone anticipation
iPhone anticipation   ((c) JenniferWoodardMaderazo)
IMG_0086.jpg
IMG_0086.jpg   ((c) mrbill)
The new Apple iPhone is seen in this June 29, 2007 file photo in New York. Apple Inc. has issued a software update that creates problems for iPhones modified to work with a cellular carrier other than AT&T Inc. (AP Photo/Jason DeCrow, file)
The new Apple iPhone is seen in this June 29, 2007 file photo in New York. Apple Inc. has issued a software update that creates problems for iPhones modified to work with a cellular carrier other than...   (Associated Press)
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