Starlink, owned by Elon Musk, is charging Hurricane Helene survivors $400 for internet service, despite advertising it as ‘free.’
Elon Musk’s Starlink has been in the news after its offer of “free” internet service to Hurricane Helene survivors raised eyebrows.
The company promised 30 days of free access to its satellite internet.
However, it did not mention that survivors must pay $400 for the required hardware.
Elon Musk’s Starlink previously stated to provide “free” internet service for Hurricane Helene survivors
Starlink, a part of Musk’s SpaceX, shared its offer on social media.
The announcement was intended to help those affected by Hurricane Helene, which caused severe destruction in parts of the South.
The storm has already claimed over 200 lives, leaving many without power and internet access.
In areas where phone lines and fiber cables were damaged, Starlink aimed to provide a solution.
“For those impacted by Hurricane Helene, or looking to support response and recovery efforts in affected areas, Starlink is now free for 30 days,” they wrote on Twitter.
“Starlink terminals will now work automatically without need for payment in the areas affected by Hurricane Helene,” Elon Musk retweeted the post with a caption.
The post quickly gained attention, going viral with millions of views.
Musk stated that all Starlink terminals would work automatically in the affected areas without the need for payment.
However, users soon discovered that they still had to pay for the satellite dish and other fees. This left many feeling misled.
The residents doubted they were deceived by Starlink’s advertisements
Kinney Baughman, a resident of Boone, North Carolina, criticized Starlink’s offer.
He described it as a “bait and switch,” suggesting that the company was taking advantage of vulnerable people instead of genuinely helping them.
Baughman pointed out that the $400 fee for the dish, along with shipping and taxes, made the offer less appealing.
He felt that residents would be better off waiting for their regular internet service to be restored, which could take less time than getting Starlink set up.
Many survivors are currently dealing with significant challenges. Thousands are still without power, and some areas are flooded.
Baughman noted that even if someone managed to obtain the Starlink equipment, they would still need electricity to use it.
With many homes lacking power, the practicality of this offer is in question. Starlink also created a special help page for hurricane victims.
However, those who already own a Starlink dish and wish to have their fees waived must submit a support ticket.
The company has not specified how long it will take to evaluate these requests.
Despite the criticism, Starlink continues to promote its service.
Musk has spoken about the need for internet access during crises, but his company’s actions have raised concerns.
Many believe that companies should prioritize helping disaster survivors rather than charging them during difficult times.
Hurricane Helene has severely impacted communities across the South.
As recovery efforts continue, many residents are trying to rebuild their lives. The situation is urgent, and access to communication is essential for those affected.
