ISP Blocks Alleged Illegal File Sharers

ISP Blocks Alleged Illegal File Sharers

Karoo, a Humberside internet service provider, has begun blocking subscribers believed to be involved in illegal file sharing. The move is part of the firm's 'three strikes' policy, designed to combat piracy.
 

The ISP has sent a letter notifying suspected file sharers of the disconnection. The subscribers are then asked to sign a document acknowledging its file sharing practices and promising not to do it again before they get reconnected. On the other hand, users who continue to illegaly share files over the web could be permanently disconnected. 

 

Karoo's move was widely criticized by the Open Rights Group, which noted that the ISP has gone overboard. The group claimed Karoo is not following a legal procedure and its decision to disconnect some subscribers would leave them no other option as Hull only have one telecoms company. 

 

ORG executive director said, "People are being found guilty by a Kang-Karoo court."

 

"Internet access is crucial for freedom of expression in the digital age. It's also how people do business and gain an education. A monopoly like Karoo cannot be allowed to arbitrarily decide when to limit our fundamental rights. Only courts can do that."