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Virgin Media begins fight against illegal filesharing

Posted 19th January 2010 at 4:32pm by Kimberley Howson

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Virgin Media is using new anti-piracy technology

One of the UK's leading broadband providers is trialling new technology that will help it in the battle against illegal filesharing, it has been revealed.

Virgin Media is using deep packet inspection technology provided by Detica to identify the types of files being downloaded by consumers, in an effort to fully understand how much illegal content is changing hands through its network, reports the Times.

However, it is not believed that the system will allow the broadband provider to discover the identity of specific filesharers.

"It could be, but the technology hasn't been designed for that purpose," a spokesman for Virgin Media told the newspaper.

"The IP information is discarded. It allows us to understand the exact nature of unlawful traffic on our network."

Last year, Virgin Media announced plans to launch a new digital music service that includes an unlimited download subscription option.

The company is working with Universal Music on the platform.

More news on: Virgin Media, Future developments

2 comments

  • 1

    Jan H, 20th January 2010.

    Providing this system only looks for (and blocks) illegal music, I really don't mind. The Internet could be a much safer place.

    Reply
  • 2

    Andy Moore, 22nd January 2010.

    Considering many illegal downloads are ridden with hidden nasties it's a step forward!

    Reply

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