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But in a rare move, the federal government is stepping in to reverse that decision. In an interview, Bains said he’s taking action after hearing “loud and clear” from Canadians across the country about their experiences with high-pressure sales tactics.

“Like many Canadians, we are concerned by allegations of clearly inappropriate sales practices by telecom carriers,” Bains said in a statement.

“I have directed the CRTC to thoroughly investigate this matter. No Canadian should ever be misled or treated unfairly by a telecom corporation, especially those who are most vulnerable.”

While the government typically refrains from meddling in CRTC business, it did so twice in 2017. Bains nudged the CRTC to reconsider a decision that could open up mobile networks to wholesale access, but the CRTC surprised the industry when it didn’t budge from its original position. It was the first major decision under Scott, a former telecom executive whose leadership began last fall.

On Thursday, the CRTC acknowledged the government’s request and said it will announce next steps in due course.

“We understand that there are growing concerns about this issue,” spokeswoman Patricia Valladao said in an email.

The Order in Council demanded the CRTC deliver a report by Feb. 28. It stated that Canadians vulnerable due to age, disabilities or language barriers can be hurt most if telecom employees or third parties sell them unsuitable services or fail to provide critical information. Such tactics can lead to higher bills or cause “stress, confusion and frustration.”