EchoStar Corporation ($SATS) subsidiary DISH Wireless agreed to pay more than $17.28 million to resolve U.S. government allegations tied to fraudulent enrollments in the FCC’s Emergency Broadband Benefit Program and Affordable Connectivity Program. The Justice Department alleged DISH enrolled thousands of ineligible subscribers through Boost Mobile and continued seeking federal reimbursements after executives became aware of enrollment issues.
- The DOJ alleged DISH enrolled more than 130,000 subscribers into EBBP and ACP between May 2021 and February 2022 using questionable school eligibility data.
- Authorities said DISH improperly enrolled more than 16,000 households tied to schools located over 25 miles away without verified attendance.
- DISH allegedly received up to $50 per month per subscriber under EBBP and $30 monthly under ACP.
- The settlement resolves False Claims Act, common law, and Communications Act allegations with no admission of liability.
- The FCC previously issued an administrative order against DISH tied to similar allegations in January 2025.
- Relevant Companies
- EchoStar Corporation ($SATS) - DISH Wireless is a wholly owned subsidiary and the settlement directly impacts the company.
- AT&T ($T) - Participates in federal broadband subsidy programs and could face increased compliance scrutiny.
- Verizon Communications ($VZ) - Wireless and broadband subsidy program oversight may tighten across the industry.
Editor’s Note: This is a developing story. This article may be updated as more details become available.
