UK's Telecoms Watchdog Proposes Anti-Piracy Policy

Under the plan, ISPs with more than 400,000 subscribers would be required to send notifications to subscribers informing them of allegations that their accounts had been used for copyright infringement. ISPs would also have to record the number of notifications sent to subscribers and maintain a list of alleged serial copyright infringers, which copyright holders, such as music and movie companies, could access and use to bring legal action against them. The list would include subscribers who had received three notifications within a year.

 

 

Ofcom says it will establish “an independent, robust subscriber appeals mechanism for consumers who believe they have received incorrect notifications.”

 

The BBC reports that the Communications Consumer Panel, an arm of Ofcom that works for consumer interests in telecommunications, has partnered with advocacy groups to release a set of principles it believes should govern the code of practice.

 

“The principles say sound evidence is needed before any action is taken, consumers must have the right to defend themselves and the appeals process must be free to pursue,” according to the BBC.

 

Initially, the plan would apply only to the following ISPs: BT, Talk Talk, Virgin Media, Sky, Orange, O2, and the Post Office.

 

Ofcom has begun a consultation exercise on the proposals which will conclude at the end of July.

 

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