Beware of Phorm small print, warns expert
3rd October 2008
British broadband subscribers tempted to take part in a trial being conducted by BT and Phorm are being urged to think carefully.
Chris Williams of technology news provider the Register has pointed out that under the terms and conditions attached to the trials of the internet monitoring service, BT refuses responsibility for anybody surfing the web unaware that they are being watched.
Mr Williams explains: "BT washes its hands of any legal responsibility if people do not realise their web browsing is under surveillance.
"What’s more, parents are expected to teach their children about Phorm, so they can offer the individual informed consent the technology requires to operate within the."
After conducting the trial with BT, Phorm - which can target advertising based on broadband users’ surfing habits - is planning to work with TalkTalk and Virgin Media.
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