As of today, December 14, 2017 — the Open Internet Order, otherwise known as net neutrality, has been repealed after being established only two years ago during the Obama administration — 3 Republicans to 2 Democrats.
Tech companies and consumers alike have expressed their concerns and advocacy for net neutrality throughout the past few months, taking to social media and even to the streets to protest the repeal. If you would recall in 2015, the FCC approved the order with the backing of major online support. The order was to establish a level field for all consumers. Under the order, ISPs (Internet Service Providers), were required to treat all online content with the same respect, across the board. The net neutrality order would render no advantage to any particular provider over their rivals. In essence, the repeal changes the entire dynamic of how the internet will be monitored, placing more authority in the hands of broadband companies and ISPs.
“everyday apps such as Facebook, Twitter, Netflix, etc. will become monetized more aggressively…”
With such a repeal in place and more authority and power being entrusted to ISPs, a major concern of consumers is that the use of everyday apps such as Facebook, Twitter, Netflix, etc. will become monetized more aggressively and content will be filtered to cater to an agenda.
Although the FCC has voted in favor of the repeal, the fight for open and fair internet still rages. Consumers continue to voice concern over the repeal. Protests are seemingly unhindered as the FCC still must go before Congress to solidify and implement the repeal. With that being said, whether you’re for or against net neutrality, we must consider the possible consequences of what may come of this if the repeal is to be passed indefinitely.
