Amid a barrage of public criticism from travelers, Google, Microsoft, and other parties, Marriott International has taken a step back from its efforts to block personal Wi-Fi devices in meeting and conference spaces at properties it manages. In a statement released yesterday, the hotel company said it would not block guests’ personal Wi-Fi devices, but it still seeks clarity from the FCC regarding what lawful measures a network operator can take to prevent cyber attacks from occurring.
“Marriott International listens to its customers, and we will not block guests from using their personal Wi-Fi devices at any of our managed hotels,” the company stated. “Marriott remains committed to protecting the security of Wi-Fi access in meeting and conference areas at our hotels. We will continue to look to the FCC to clarify appropriate security measures network operators can take to protect customer data, and will continue to work with the industry and others to find appropriate market solutions that do not involve the blocking of Wi-Fi devices.”
According to a Skift report, Marriott has not withdrawn a petition it made to the FCC in partnership with Ryman Hospitality Properties and the American Hotel & Lodging Association seeking clarification on the issue. Marriott also seeks FCC recommendations on what it and the rest of the hotel industry should do to safeguard their Wi-Fi network security at conferences.
In October 2014, the FCC imposed a $600,000 fine on Marriott International for allegedly blocking personal Wi-Fi hotspots in the conference facilities of the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tenn. Marriott maintained that the Gaylord Opryland’s actions were lawful, and the hotel was protecting guests that used its Wi-Fi service from rogue wireless hotspots.
