[mythtv-users] OT: Comcast local QAM - would they still send signal if I cancel?

[David Brieck Jr.]

On Mon, Jul 26, 2010 at 3:17 PM, <mythtv at derdev.com> wrote:
>
> I don't think this is a dumb question, it's certainly not one that Comcast
> would answer...
>
> Today I receive my local stations over QAM to my HDHR as delivered by my
> Comcast subscription.
>
> I'm wondering if anyone actually knows (first hand) if Comcast kills your
> signal completely or simply backs you down to "locals only" (like an
> antenna") if you completely cancel your account.  I envision that it's more
> work for them to send a truck to kill the signal completely than it is for
> some support agent to back down my subscription and stop billing.
>
> Basically I'm wrestling with a decision to put up an HD antenna of my own
> or not... if there's a decent chance that Comcast would keep feeding me the
> locals, I'd love to know.  Of course, YMMV will be in everyone's response -
> I understand.
>
> thanks!
> Dave.

Just to point out the obvious: even if they didn't disconnect you it
would still be stealing cable if you still used it.

http://www.legalmatch.com/law-library/article/cable-piracy-lawyers.html

What Is Considered to be Stealing Cable?

Stealing cable TV is a federal crime. The law prohibits anyone from
intercepting or receiving any cable communications unless authorized
by a cable operator. If you are receiving cable television and not
paying for it, you are most likely stealing cable.

What Are the Possible Penalties for Stealing Cable?

Criminal penalties:

- Stealing cable TV for personal entertainment can carry a maximum
fine of $1,000 or a maximum prison sentence of 6 months, or both
- Stealing cable TV for commercial advantage or financial gain can
carry a fine of up to $50,000 or a maximum of 2 years in prison, or
both for a first offense; for any subsequent offenses the penalty can
be a fine of up to $100,000 and up to 5 years in prison

Apart from criminal penalties, a cable operator may choose to bring a
lawsuit against an individual stealing cable. The possible penalties
to the individual are:

- An injunction to prevent further use of illegal cable
- Money damages suffered by the cable operator, as well as any profits
made by the person stealing cable
- Statutory damages that range from $250-$10,000
- Recovery of full costs, including attorneys¿ fees
- If the individual stole cable for financial advantage, the cable
operator can sue for damages up to $50,000
- Even if the person was not aware they were stealing cable, the cable
operator could sue for damages of at least $100
- Penalties imposed by state and local laws may also apply

Just sayin'.