Updated
Updated · WSLS 10 · Jul 13
Seiontec Shutdown Cuts Internet for 200-400 Bedford County Customers
Updated
Updated · WSLS 10 · Jul 13

Seiontec Shutdown Cuts Internet for 200-400 Bedford County Customers

2 articles · Updated · WSLS 10 · Jul 13

Summary

  • Bedford County estimates 200 to 400 former Seiontec customers lost internet after the provider ceased operations on July 6, disrupting homes, students and small businesses.
  • County officials said the shutdown was abrupt and Seiontec has been unreachable — repeated calls went to voicemail and a visit to its office suggested it had fully closed.
  • County staff began contacting other internet providers within hours, trying to arrange short-term service options while a permanent replacement is identified.
  • Former customers have been told to contact the county broadband help line or website with account information so officials can match them with available alternatives.

Insights

When a rural internet provider vanishes, who is responsible for reconnecting an entire county?
Could a new federal rule allowing grant cancellations create even more internet deserts in rural America?