Comment Not public utilities (Score 3, Insightful) 82
I thought broadband wasn't a public utility. Why are we even allowing them access to public right of way or private property? They should have to pay for that access.
This is a simple rule to live by - if you see advertising, start by assuming you don't need it. If it's for a brand, assume that brand is overcharging you. If you see product placements or informal/influencer content, assume that's a paid advertisement. Think very carefully about what you need, make a shopping list and monitor the prices, so you know when to buy (and give yourself a cooldown to avoid impulse buying - if you haven't needed it while waiting for a special, maybe you don't need it at all). Even for groceries, know the prices of items, and adjust your weekly purchases to target specials.
Using ad blockers online on the other hand is just a good idea...
"Go to Heaven for the climate, Hell for the company." -- Mark Twain