As we noted yesterday, Verizon has finally admitted they've been charging millions of users an erroneous $1.99 "data fee" for essentially doing nothing. Our guess is Verizon announced the refunds to pre-empt any findings of an FCC investigation -- and make it appear they were engaged in corporate responsibility after denying the problem existed for two years. FCC Commisioner Mignon Clyburn issued a statement (pdf) demanding more answers:You think? A company that's been milking customers to the tune of millions -- for years -- all the while denying anything was happening despite press reports, a steady stream of consumer complaints, and whistle blowers? Yes, perhaps somebody somewhere might want to ask a few questions.

Meanwhile, despite the ocean of press reports we've read on this, nobody appears to be asking questions about Verizon's math (historically not the company's strong suit). Verizon estimates they'll pay $50 million in refunds, when in reality Verizon potentially made hundreds of millions from the fee. Fifteen million (at least) users being charged $2 (at least) a month for two years (at least) certainly brings you to a total that far exceeds $50 million. Whatever happens be it fines, class action settlements or refunds, we're guessing Verizon's "error" still nets them a mammoth profit.