Illegal downloading could see your broadband terminated
14th February 2008
Internet uses who illegally download music and videos on the internet could now be faced with the possibility that they will have their internet connection terminated by their broadband provider according to a report from The Times.
Early indications would suggest that it would be on a "Three strikes and your out" basis, initially an email would be sent, then suspension and lastly termination of the users account.
There are however going to be a few issues to overcome with this system. Firstly wireless internet could allow other users to piggyback onto your internet connection and download through it without you even knowing, also users who deliberately download illegal material could possibly use this as an excuse anyway.
Another possible problem could be with the naming of files, it is easy to rename a file so users could find themselves downloading a different file than what they are expecting, again this would not be a deliberate fault on their part but could again land them in trouble.
Once users have been terminated from one broadband provider will they then be free to instantly join up to another broadband provider or will there be a database that broadband providers add customers who have been kicked off onto is unclear.
There are some big obstacles to overcome to make a system that can work properly and we will watch closely how this develops as it seems like it is going to be a minefield for broadband providers to police.
Author: Mark Ward Copyright: BroadbandWatchdog.co.uk - NetMediaUK.com
