Hilton hotels were investigated by federal officials after complaints from guests that the hotel chain jammed their 4G Wi-Fi signals if they refused to pay a $500 fee to use the signals.
The complaints began in August 2014. When guests didn’t pony up the cash, they claim that Hilton jammed their signals.
That didn’t set well with travelers or the FCC.
"Hotel guests deserve to have their Wi-Fi blocking complaints investigated by the commission," Travis LeBlanc told CNN Money. LeBlanc, who heads the FCC's Enforcement Bureau, was upset when the company ignored requests for more information.
"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," he said.
The FCC fined Hilton $25,000 and warned of a "significantly higher fine" if the chain doesn't cooperate.
"Throughout this inquiry, we have cooperated with the FCC, providing extensive background and details in a timely and efficient manner," Hilton officials said in a statement.
The FCC fined Marriott $600,000 earlier this year for similar issues.
About the Author
