In terms of the letter of the law you are correct. But when someone is in a captive situation, such as being in a hospital and needing to call family (either as a patient or visitor) the person has no choices. In other words, when I had to take my mother to the emergency room, I had to notify both my employer and my sister of the situation.
Indeed, there was a risk of physical harm -- to my mother -- if I didn't consult with my sister concerning my mother's medical situation so I could properly advise the doctors. So, actually, I would call it extortion per your definition.
In any event, it is certianly deceptive fraudulent behavior. Attorneys General DO go after this sort of thing and it is publicized, but it is one of only many things they must deal with.
I was using a calling card and the pay phone used the long distance carrier I used. But I didn't know I _still_ had to dial a special 800 number. After complaining, they took off the $25/minute charges. That's fraud and deceptive business practice. (BTW, there were no directions on my calling card number -- which was merely my phone number with a PIN and I've had it for many years.)
Do you think a supermarket could get away with advertising a big special but charging you outrageous prices because you didn't dial an
800 number first?Interesting how you put it. Let's be clear about something. Until divesture, making a phone call was indeed a right under the philosophy of universal telephone service.