Verizon Users Can More Easily Switch Providers

Verizon Communications Inc. made it easier for customers of its high-speed Internet access to switch phone-service providers, responding to government officials’ concerns that the company was limiting consumer choice.

Users of Verizon’s digital subscriber line Web service can now change providers and keep their phone numbers.

Public officials including New York Atty. Gen. Eliot Spitzer say forcing DSL subscribers to also buy local-phone service thwarts competition. Some lawmakers have said Verizon should be required to sell the products separately to win approval for its planned takeover of MCI Inc.