Federal Communications Commission considers rules to avoid unpleasant wireless bill surprises

Regulators seek to avoid wireless bill surprises

WASHINGTON — Federal regulators are considering rules that would require wireless phone companies to alert consumers before they reach roaming or data usage limits under their wireless plans.

The Federal Communications Commission says it is seeking input on ways to head off “bill shock” — which it describes as “the experience of getting an unexpectedly high wireless phone bill.” The FCC says it has received hundreds of complaints from across the country involving all the major carriers.

The agency is considering following the lead of the European Union, which requires wireless companies to send a text message to customers who are running up roaming charges or approaching data usage limits.