Spectrum Internet Users to Get Refunds and Free TV Channels

The operators of Spectrum cable and internet services have agreed to a $174 million settlement of a New York state fraud case.

Attorney General Barbara Underwood announced the deal with Charter Communications on Tuesday.

New York customers are to receive more than $62 million in direct refunds along with access to streaming services and premium channels for a limited time.

The state had alleged Time Warner Cable and then Spectrum denied users the internet services they had been promised.

More than 700,000 active customers are to receive refunds of between $75 and $150 each.

Charter also is to offer people now receiving internet and cable television from the company a choice of either three free months of HBO or six free months of Showtime.

All other active internet subscribers are to receive one free month of the Spectrum TV Choice streaming service and a free month of Showtime.

Under the settlement, Charter also must make changes in its marketing and business practices.

Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com