The Communication Policy and Regulation Division (CPRD) conducts outreach events that provide information on cable service in the County, new developments in telecommunications, and services provided by CPRD and the Department of Cable and Consumer Services. Your homeowner’s association, community center, or other group can arrange for a presentation that addresses your needs and interests. Email or call 703-324-5902 to schedule a presentation.
Understanding Your Cable Bill and Video Services
Cable and internet services are essential, but many residents do not fully understand how their services are structured or billed. This session explains common charges, fees, and service options.
Residents may bring a printed copy of their cable bill for a practical, real-time review.
In this session, residents will learn how to:
- interpret common charges, fees, and service structures
- review and understand their cable bill in real time
- identify key billing components, including taxes and fees that support public, educational, and government (PEG) channels
- understand billing protections, including requirements for clear, concise bills and advance notice of service or rate changes (in line with federal standards such as 47 CFR §§ 76.1619 and 76.1603)
- recognize when billing concerns may require follow-up with a provider or Fairfax County
Understanding Video Service Options
Understanding today’s video service landscape can be complex. This session explains how services are structured and how they compare.
In this session, residents will learn how to:
- distinguish between cable, satellite, and internet-based video services
- evaluate service structures, pricing models, and equipment requirements
- assess how service choices impact cost and access to programming
- understand how multiple services may be used together in the home
Cable, Smart TVs, and Your Privacy
Smart TVs and connected devices collect and use data in ways many residents may not fully understand. This session explains how data is collected, used, and protected. This presentation is offered in community settings, including high schools and colleges, and is especially engaging for students, while remaining valuable for residents of all ages.
In this session, residents will learn how to:
- identify what information may be collected through cable services and connected devices
- recognize how personal data may be used by service providers and device manufacturers
- understand privacy protections under applicable federal law and franchise agreements
- make informed decisions about device use and privacy settings
Understanding Smart Home Technology and Connected Devices
Smart home devices are increasingly integrated into cable and internet services. This session explains how these technologies function within the home.
In this session, residents will learn how to:
- understand how smart home devices connect and interact with cable and internet services
- assess how devices collect and share data within the home
- understand consumer protection and policy considerations related to connected devices
- evaluate how these technologies impact household connectivity and service use
Television Services and Viewing Trends
This session explains how modern televisions connect to cable and internet services and how viewing options have evolved.
In this session, residents will learn how to:
- understand how televisions connect to cable services, streaming platforms, and over-the-air programming
- distinguish between traditional cable viewing and internet-based video services
- understand how smart TV features impact access to content and services
- assess how viewing options affect cost, service choices, and overall viewing experience
- make informed decisions about how they access and use television services
Digital Skills for Cable and Technology
Technology plays a central role in accessing cable and internet services. This session provides practical skills to help residents navigate these systems.
In this session, residents will learn how to:
- navigate cable and internet services and related devices
- interpret how information and content are delivered through platforms and services
- recognize reliable information and avoid common missed opportunities when using technology
- manage multiple services, accounts, and devices effectively
- understand how data is collected and used across platforms
Understanding Your Rights as a Cable Customer
Cable providers must meet specific service and customer protection standards. This session explains those requirements.
In this session, residents will learn how to:
- understand their rights related to billing, outages, and service quality
- recognize provider responsibilities and service standards, including notice and billing requirements under federal regulations
- identify when service issues require action
- determine when and how to contact Fairfax County for assistance
Cable and Internet Rules and What They Mean for You
Communications policies at the federal and state levels continue to evolve and directly impact consumers.
In this session, residents will learn how to:
- understand changes in communications policy and regulation
- recognize how pricing transparency and billing rules affect their services
- understand how broadband access policies impact availability and cost
- stay informed about consumer protections and regulatory developments
Construction, Safety, and Reporting Cable Issues
Communications-related construction can impact neighborhoods and private property. This session explains what to expect and how issues are addressed.
In this session, residents will learn how to:
- recognize common cable and infrastructure construction activities
- understand their rights during construction and installation
- identify safety concerns such as exposed wires or property damage
- report issues and understand how CPRD inspectors respond in Fairfax County
Understanding Cable, Wi-Fi, Internet, and 5G in Your Home
Understanding how communications technologies function is essential for navigating modern services.
In this session, residents will learn how to:
- distinguish between cable, broadband, Wi-Fi, internet, and 5G technologies
- understand how these technologies connect within the home
- recognize factors that affect service performance and reliability
- make informed decisions about communications services