Elon Musk received criticism this week after it was discovered that his offer of “free” Starlink internet to victims of Hurricane Helene requires a hardware payment of $400 and automatically signs up claimants to a $120 per month plan.
After Hurricane Helene devastated the southeastern United States last month and resulted in more than 200 deaths, Musk announced on his social network X that those affected would be able to claim 30 days of free high-speed internet through his company Starlink.
“Starlink terminals will now work automatically without need for payment in the areas affected by Hurricane Helene,” announced Musk.
What was not made clear, however, was that to take advantage of the offer, victims would have to purchase a Starlink kit at the cost of $400, including taxes, handling, and shipping, according to the New York Post.
In addition, those who signed up for the free 30 days would be automatically subscribed to a $120 per month plan at the end of the trial.
james blue