Virgin considers suspending file sharers

Virgin Media will be launching an unlimited music download service as part of a collaborative arrangement with Universal record company. Based on a monthly subscription fee, it would certainly not be the first such service created. What makes this one different is the revelation that Virgin's service will be providing DRM-free tracks.

One condition for the music download service, it appears, is that Virgin takes steps to guard the interests of Universal Music. This much is apparent from a statement on the agreement, which reads, "In parallel, the two companies will be working together to protect Universal Music's intellectual property and drive a material reduction in the unauthorized distribution of its repertoire across Virgin Media's network."

One suggestion that is being tossed around to bring about the "material reduction" mentioned above seems to be a "temporary suspension of Internet access" for persistent offenders. The suspension could range from as little as five minutes, or up to a full day. The basis for suspension would be based on information furnished by Universal. Virgin was quick to note that the idea might never see the light of day, and would be launched on a trial basis first.

Now, I have some opinions on the viability of such a measure, which you can read in my Editor's Corner. 

For more on this story:
- check out this article at ZDNET News

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