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Broadband piracy to be tackled by Government

Moves to address broadband internet piracy could effectively make internet service providers (ISPs) legally responsible for any unlawful content downloaded by their broadband customers.

The anti-piracy proposals are being toyed with by Government ministers, who are reportedly keen to channel broadband surfers away from illegal sites offering free download content over broadband, and towards legitimate paid-for sites.

ISPs could potentially help address the problem by clamping down on the illegal broadband sites. Although this places weight on their shoulders, the proposals involve the ISPs receiving a small payment for every film or music track downloaded legally by broadband customers. The result could be millions of pounds of additional revenue.

The Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (Berr) is reportedly considering several proposals ahead of possible legislation early next year. However, the profit-sharing plan, submitted by consultancy Ingenious Media, is believed to be the anti-piracy over broadband proposal that has caught the eye of Government ministers. The Observer online reports an industry source as saying: “Officials are treating it seriously.”

Berr is expected to publish its recommendation on broadband piracy in January.

In July earlier this year, six major broadband providers signed up to a music piracy scheme. Some providers opted for a ‘three-strikes-and-you’re-out’ approach to customers illegally accessing songs from the web, with warning letters being sent out initially.

24/12/2008
Author: CompareBroadbandUK staff writer

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