Ofcom Discussion

(26-06-2012 14:27 )munch1917 Wrote:  On a slightly different tack, Ofcom have fleshed out the details of their proposals for policing the internet :

http://www.wired.co.uk/news/archive/2012...and-prices
http://torrentfreak.com/new-details-of-u...ic-120626/

It's the old 3 strikes policy. Those found to be downloading copyrighted content will be sent a warning letter, 3 letters within 12 months and you go on a list which means the copyright holders can make the ISP reveal your identity so they can potentially take you to court.

To be fair, it could have been a lot worse, but I still wonder if it is just an exercise in futility. Denmark has just abandoned it's own 3 strikes policy in favour of other initiatives, and past evidence seems to show that going after individual downloaders doesn't really have much positive effect.
At least in this policy, virtually all costs are down to the rights-holders making the claims.

I think the copyright holders have to start the complaints process, perhaps by identifying "pirate" sites and asking the ISP for everyone who has downloaded material from there.

Appeals will be possible but will cost £20 - even if successful.

No idea who people will appeal to. Ofcom? The ISP? An independent court - no way, not for £20.

In the warning letters the ISPs must notify people where legit content can be purchased. This conjures up images of BT, Sky, Tiscali, Virgin, etc sending people letters explaining where they can buy footage of Angel Long getting fucked live and Faye Rampton giving the cameraman a blowjob. They could even hand out contact details for TVX, Sport and Elite hardcore sites.

Sadly I suspect the information will be limited to general info only rather than where to find a specific clip.

The other problem will be Mums opening the letter and going round the family asking who downloaded Anal Annie Bukake Days (European Version).