Carrier Alerts Help Consumers Avoid 'Bill Shock'

Cell-phone users are all too familiar with that sinking feeling you get when opening up an extravagant bill.

Hidden fees and additional charges can rack up, especially when you're not keeping track of expenses. But now, wireless customers have a solution to "bill shock." Back in 2011, major U.S. wireless service providers agreed to send free alerts to subscribers whenever they incur roaming fees, as well as when they approach or exceed limits on voice, data and text usage, according to the Federal Communications Commission.

The alerts, which apply to current and future mobile-phone plans as of Oct. 17, 2011, aim to help subscribers avoid unexpected charges, and better monitor use of their phones. Check out the video, above, for more details. Read more...