Why are so many countries trying to ban VoIP?

[Cheung Mo]

I doubt it'll happen here in Canada though: Attempting to ban it would be a political disaster for whoever happens to be in power.

[which doctor]

They are trying to ban it because it cuts into the traditional phone companies profits and in general is far cheaper (despite the whole 911 controversy) than a traditional phone line. Sometimes it is even free if you are just using your computer.

[redterror19]

Originally posted by Cheung [email protected] 01, 2007 12:35 pm
I doubt it'll happen here in Canada though: Attempting to ban it would be a political disaster for whoever happens to be in power.
I think phone companies are trying to use intellectual property laws in order to reduce the competitiveness of VoIP. Verizon slammed Vonage with a big infringement lawsuit and soon the legislatures will want all the usual taxes and surcharge revenue they've been skipping out on. Coming soon to your phone cards, too. I don't know if they'll ever get that internet tax passed, though. While I don't oppose taxes generally, they use these kind of consumption taxes to nickel and dime us to death.