Is Elon Musk Looting Public under 'Free Internet Scam' ?
Elon Musk recently declared that Starlink, his firm, will offer "free" internet access to anybody impacted by Hurricane Helene. As much as the millionaire would like you to think otherwise, there are certain conditions to this offer. The first month's $120/month "residential" subscription fee is eliminated, but clients are still responsible for the hardware and shipping fees, which add up to almost $400 after taxes.
This begs some very significant concerns about Elon's true motivations for making his "generic" offer; it appears more like a bait and switch, if you will, than a sincere effort to assist the victims. It is nearly impossible for anybody to install Starlink's hardware—which needs energy to function—given that the majority of the areas affected by Hurricane Helene still lack power.
Moreover, it is ridiculous to add $400 to a burden when individuals are already having a hard time starting over. After the storm passes, the installed gear could merely become a very costly "showpiece," as most Americans have access to more traditional and less expensive ways to access the internet in everyday life.
This frantic attempt on Elon Musk's part is perceived as a ploy to increase Starlink's user base and sway public opinion in favor of Donald Trump, the Republican nominee for president whom the billionaire has recently openly backed.
This frantic attempt on Elon Musk's part is perceived as a ploy to increase Starlink's user base and sway public opinion in favor of Donald Trump, the Republican nominee for president whom the billionaire has recently openly backed.