Caracas – Venezuela’s state-owned telecommunications company, Cantv, has reported a significant decrease in reported cases of irregular billing practices, falling by 87.05% between 2023 and a projected figure for 2025. The reduction, announced February 28, 2026, reflects strengthened internal controls and a more responsive approach to customer complaints, according to a press release from Cantv’s external communications department.
The number of investigations initiated by the company has fallen sharply, from 122 cases in 2023 to a projected 18 in 2025. These irregularities primarily involved the illegal diversion of telephone lines, fraudulent increases to Aba internet plans, and deceptive repair services, Cantv stated.
The improvement is attributed to a rigorous inspection regime implemented at Cantv’s central offices and distribution centers, conducted in collaboration with organized community groups through the company’s Technical Telecommunications Tables. These tables appear to be a key component of the effort to identify and address illicit activity.
Beyond billing issues, Cantv also reported progress in preserving its infrastructure. In the Zulia state, 143 Cantv-branded utility poles lacking proper permits were recovered. Critical components of a motogenerator were retrieved in Valle de la Pascua, according to the company.
Cantv has taken disciplinary action against personnel involved in the irregular practices and is working with law enforcement agencies to pursue legal remedies. The company is also emphasizing preventative measures through awareness campaigns aimed at both employees and subscribers, designed to highlight potential risks and encourage the reporting of suspicious activity.
Earlier reports indicated Cantv began addressing the issue of irregular charges in 2023, achieving a 55% reduction in reported cases compared to 2022, according to a January 31, 2024, statement. These initial efforts focused on rooting out Cantv employees who were allegedly soliciting unauthorized payments for services, including repairs, plan changes, and data updates. During 2023, more than 1,600 cases were referred to investigative authorities.
The company’s actions come after years of complaints regarding unofficial fees demanded by technicians and intermediaries for basic services. Some residents have described a system of paying “vacunas” – a colloquial term for extortion – to ensure internet access or repairs, as reported by con-cafe.com on February 28, 2026.
Cantv has not yet released details on the specific sanctions applied to employees found to be involved in the illicit practices, nor has it provided a comprehensive accounting of recovered funds related to the fraudulent schemes.
