Internet users in the United Kingdom accused of illegally sharing copyrighted music and movie files will face stiff penalties, starting with warning letters that will lead to bandwidth restrictions, according to media reports from the UK.
Assuming a download cap or restricted bandwidth doesn't deter file sharers, Lord Mandelson wants the possibility of banishment made available to ISPs and the government.
Copyright holders have called for banishment to repeat copyright offenders, while critics note it won't do anything to limit piracy in the future.
ISPs have been on the fence regarding disconnecting file sharers, as the actual effectiveness of such methods remains unclear. Most ISPs are sitting back and will do whatever the British government deems effective to stifle online piracy. BT and Carphone Warehouse, two of the biggest ISPs in the UK, are not happy with their role as Internet police, and have opposed any possible crackdowns on sharers.
"It must become clear that the days of consequence-free widespread online infringement are over," Lord Mandelson said during a tech conference. "Technical measures will be a last resort and I have no expectation of mass suspensions."
However, in Lord Mandelson's proposal, it will take two notifications before the threat reaches the possibility of losing Internet access. Each person who faces banishment has the right to appeal the case, and then it will be determined what the next step will be.
In France, a similar three strikes policy has been implemented, with copyright sharers sent a warning letter first. If the person receives a letter and doesn't comply, losing Internet access up to one year is possible. However, the French ISPs have been more willing to work with the government and copyright groups, while UK ISPs are less reluctant.
