Eircom customers receive warning over file sharing

EIRCOM has warned customers that they risk having their broadband internet connection either suspended or disconnected if they persist in illegal file sharing.

The company yesterday announced that it will implement a protocol, agreed with the Irish Recorded Music Association to combat copyright infringement, which could see offenders having their broadband connection suspended for periods of up to 12 months.

“Eircom is proceeding with the implementation of the protocol which could result in the suspension and ultimately disconnection of broadband service for those customers who deliberately and persistently infringe copyright,” said an Eircom spokesperson.

Under the protocol, anyone engaged in the illegal sharing of music files will first receive a warning that their activity is illegal, which will then be followed by written warnings.

Any customer who persists in such activity will face having their broadband connection suspended for one week up to a maximum sanction of being disconnected for 12 months.

Since the protocol was introduced on a pilot basis last June, Eircom has received approximately 1,000 notifications from the music industry about illegal file sharing by their customers.

Eircom maintained that the object of the protocol was to educate and raise awareness among customers about copyright infringement and illegal file-sharing of copyright music.

Yesterday’s warning coincided with the launch by Eircom of an online music service called MusicHub, in conjunction with IRMA and leading record labels such as EMI, Sony, Warner and Universal. It will offer customers access to unlimited streaming of millions of tracks as well as 15 downloads at a cost of €5.99 per month or 40 downloads for €12.99 per month.

“The launch of Eircom MusicHub gives Eircom customers a novel, easy, inexpensive and legal way of accessing music online which is unique in Ireland,” said the spokesperson. “It is a compelling alternative to illegal file sharing.”

However, Eircom has stressed that it does not and will not monitor its customers’ use of the internet at any stage. It also will not provide personal details or any information on its customers to any third party, including record companies.

Eircom last year agreed to introduce a “three strikes” system following a landmark court case to clamp down on illegal downloaders, especially those who use peer-to-peer services.

Under the agreement, IRMA will provide Eircom with notifications which will contain among other details the IP (internet protocol) address identified as engaging in illegal music file sharing.

Eircom will contact the customers to inform them that their broadband account has been linked with a breach of copyright law.

The company will suspend its broadband service to any customer who is sent a third warning letter.