subject: How Do Broadband Providers Respond To Illegal Downloaders? [print this page] Look closely at your home broadband agreement, there's likely to be a clause buried in there somewhere about how using the service illegally can lead to disconnection, didn't see that did you?
Up until recently this clause has been an unenforced threat but UK laws could change that - so what will your broadband provider do about it?
Two providers have spoken out against it with o2 claiming that it's time for the big Record and Film companies to wake up and smell the coffee.
Big ISP Talk Talk has gone one step further pledging to those who currently take the company's broadband deals that it would rather see film and record companies in court than disconnect its customers.
Whilst disconnection is very real threat to illegal downloaders it is still a few years off, before that Ofcom will draw up a set of guidelines which is likely to include sending out warning letters suggesting other legal alternatives.
This plus the knowledge that the new law is in place is hoped to reduce illegal download levels by around 70% , if this fails to happen the stricter punishments may be introduced including capping speeds and disconnection.
Potential disconnection is not the only thing that has a number of ISPs up in arms, there are a number of pitfalls in the bill which could prove to be problematic.
The biggest issue is the fact that the owner of the a wireless will be the person to held accountable for any illegal activity even if they are unaware of it happening. The best example of this would be a cafe owner offering free Wi-Fi and then having its users using the network to download films and music illegally.
Other issues concerning the bill include blocking websites that contain links or information on how to download films and music illegally.
Some experts are concerned that some legitimate content may be caught up in the filtering system, furthermore this goes against one of the internets key principles the free uncensored exchange of information and ideas.
It also doesn't mention how mobile broadband will be affected. For example those who have a heavy use deal such as 3 mobile broadband 15gb are likely to be affected.
For the bill to work smoothly any potential disconnection would require the co-operation of the ISPs, with Talk Talk and o2 both voicing their concerns it seems that the Digital Economy Bill could have a few teething problems.
Consumers are strongly advised to seek advice from their current broadband provider on what will happen to them if they illegally download if and when these new laws come into force.
