Re: UUNET Pulling Peering Agreements & replacing them with charging under non-disclosure?

[Larry_Vaden () texoma net]

At 10:42 AM 5/2/97 -0500, Karl Denninger wrote:
> Trying to extort money to peer is exactly that - extortion.
>
> Karl Denninger (karl () MCS Net)| MCSNet - The Finest Internet Connectivity

I asked our telecommunications attorney, who bats 1000 in such matters,
about the issues involved.  His reply:

> The action is probably anticompetitive.  The problem is that the anti-trust
> laws are so hard, costly and time-consuming to enforce in civil matters,
> and for criminal you must get the state or federal authorities interested.
>
> To obtain relief you have to show intent and ability to monopolize.  This
> is not a price squeeze -- to the contrary.  You have to show concerted
> action.  Market power.  Damages.
>
> Notwithstanding my statement above about the authorities, I'd recommend all
> who are concerned go to the justice department and seek an investigation. 
> That or even the threat often mitigates behavior.


Larry Vaden, founder and CEO                       help-desk 903-813-4500
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