k. First responders in states that have opted into the AT&T offering do have the choice of using Verizon's national public safety network. However, as an added incentive to join their network, AT&T pledged to add cellular infrastructure in areas sparsely equipped for service. Internet Security and Sustainability Internet security is a global issue that cannot be isolated within a single country. However, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) currently has no authority to require that Internet providers report network outages and details about cyber attacks. In its 2009 National Broadband Plan, the FCC recommended looking at ways to ensure sustainable communications over the Internet. It also stated the desirability of expanding international participation and outreach to www.TechnicalPDF.com manage cyber security information. Part and parcel of that, the FCC would like a vehicle for collecting more detailed information about cyber security. The report also expressed concern about how dependent first responders are on Internet communications. The FCC further declared that it is considering asking Congress for the authority to require reporting on these issues. Because the Internet is classified as an information service rather than as a telecommunications service, the FCC has limited authority in regulating it. An information service is defined in the Telecommunications Act of 1996 as a service that adds value to a basic transmission path through functions such as processing information. Telecommunications is defined as the basic transmission (delivery) of voice and data. It's essentially the path over which voice is carried as well as the equipment used to send and receive voice and data traffic. Because of its critical role, the FCC attempted to alter the way the Internet is regulated SO that the agency has more oversight of cyber security and sustainability. It attempted to have the Internet classified as a telecommunications entity rather than a value-added service. However, with the changeover of the FC