Virgin Media has been criticised by human rights groups over it proposed use of Cview, a software programme that would allow it to monitor and analyse the browsing activity of its customers. Virgin Media has been in talks with record labels for some time, seeking to draw up a deal whereby customers could download unlimited quantities of music for a monthly fee.
It’s plausible that during these negotiations the internet provider has agreed to crack down on illegal file sharing via peer to peer networks. The declared intention to focus on internet traffic to three P2P index websites (BitTorrent, eDonkey and Gnutella) certainly suggests that illegal file sharing is the main motive behind the introduction of Cview.
Emma Hutchinson, a spokesperson for Virgin Media, defended the plans:
“CView works at a core-network level, and simply analyses, entirely anonymously, the percentage of data that flows across the network that is copyrighted and being shared unlawfully.”
She went on to say that they would not gather information about individuals, and that “at no point” would this data be passed onto a third party.
“We’ve engaged with all the relevant bodies, including Ofcom, the ICO and the EC, to ensure they have the information they need to make an informed judgement about our planned trial”.
Speaking to the BBC Alexander Hanff, head of ethical networks at Privacy International, said:
“Under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (Ripa) intercepting communications is a criminal offence regardless of what you do with the data.”
Privicy International has requested that the EC investigate the proposed use of Cview.
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