10.24.09
BPI Accuses BT of Showing Leniency towards Illegal Downloaders
Given the fact that illegal file sharing in the cyber world is widespread today, the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) categorically stated that it is the responsibility of all service providers to ensure that their service is not being used for any illegal activity, and to punish such wrong actions. This comment comes as a response to the recent findings that revealed British Telecom’s lackadaisical approach towards illegal downloading and file sharing.
According to recent information obtained with regard to internet usage that involves gathering the IP addresses of users engaged in unlawful downloading, service provider BT is allowing nearly 100,000 users to download files illegally using its network and is doing nothing to stop the practice. Geoff Taylor, chief executive of BPI, stated that by allowing so many users to freely misuse the internet for illegal downloads, BT is indirectly encouraging the breaking of rules instead of showing commitment towards upholding the rules.
When contacted, a BT spokesperson clarified that the allegations were not true as not all peer-to-peer applications were used for illegal activity, especially given the fact that people often use such applications for playing online games like World of Warcraft. Moreover, he warned that tracking such illegal downloads would be seen as infringement on the privacy of the users.
While explaining Your Money Government, a BT spokesperson has stated recently that the cost of checking online piracy would mean an additional £24 every year being billed to the customer.
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