CTIA has finalized a code of conduct for cellular companies. It has already been adopted by many carriers, and even has a prominent spot on Cingular.com. Here's the gist of what carriers must do if they want to be able to say they follow the CTIA consumer code.
* Provide every new customer a minimum 14-day trial period for new service.
* Provide coverage maps illustrating where service is generally available.
* In every advertisement that mentions pricing, specifically disclose the rates and terms of service.
* For every rate plan or contract, provide consumers specific disclosures regarding rates and terms of service.
* On billing statements, carriers will not label cost recovery fees or charges as taxes, and will separately identify carrier charges from taxes.
* When initiating or changing service, carriers will clearly state contract terms to customers and confirm changes in service.
* Provide customers the right to terminate service for significant changes to contract terms.
* Provide ready access to customer service.
* Promptly respond to consumer inquiries and complaints received from government agencies.
* Abide by policies for the protection of customer privacy.
Who says free markets don't govern themselves?
Update: SprintPCS has also embraced the new consumer code.