As with the AT&T and T-Mobile settlements, the networks also have to make some promises. They're no longer allowed to offer third-party premium text messaging charges, and they have to get explicit permission when they allow any kind of third-party charges. They'll have to give you a way to block all third-party charges, too. Sprint and Verizon both insist that they were diligent about helping people well before the FCC took action, but this move holds their feet to the fire -- they have to assist everyone who was affected, not just those who already made the cut.

[Image credit: AP Photo/John Minchillo]