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TalkTalk comments on governmental "u-turn"
Tuesday 25th August 2009, by Daniel King
TalkTalk has commented on the most recent plans of the government to help curb illegal file sharing over the internet, claiming they are something of a "u-turn" on previously suggested initiatives.
According to the broadband services provider, it had previously been stated in the Digital Britain report that the general public could expect to see "sensible and pragmatic" measures introduce to dissuade people from taking part in the activity.
It was noted that these plans hinted at a reasonable way to target those downloading music, films and other rights-restricted items online with the proper level of education and considered tactics in prosecuting offenders.
However, although TalkTalk has admitted it "broadly supported" the moves, a post on the firm's official blog this week highlights the more recent announcement by Lord Peter Mandelson which suggests the government has "caved in under pressure from powerful lobbyists in the content industry".
Andrew Heaney, executive director of strategy and regulation for the internet and telecommunications group, said in the post that by introducing ways in which people could be disconnected would likely guide the industry towards human rights breaches and the prosecution of those who are innocent of any crime.
He explained those who do take part in illegal file sharing can find it very simple to mask their identities with Wi-Fi hijacking and other activities - therefore it was inevitable that innocent customers would end up paying the price.
"TalkTalk will strongly resist any attempts to introduce laws that would put obligations on ISPs to act as internet police and implement technical measures against their consumers," he concluded.
Earlier this year, the company announced the acquisition of Tiscali.
