Comcast, Cox partner RIAA

Following today's earlier news of AT&T issuing notices to subscribers on behalf of the Recording Industry Association of America who are allegedly involved in illegal file sharing, Comcast and Cox have announced they too are informing Internet users of any potential illegal activities. At the same Leadership Music Digital Summit where AT&T broke its news, Comcast senior VP Joe Waz said the provider has issued two million notices to its clients. Sources at the event said provider Cox is also actively partnering with RIAA on informing and discouraging its customers of their illegal activities.

Back in December, RIAA announced it would end its practice of suing suspected Internet pirates, partly because there was the issue of identifying a person responsible for it. The same is true in this case, as it is possible subscribers' Internet accounts are being hacked or accessed by subscribers' guests, kids or somebody else in the house.

While the content of the notifications issued by Cox or Comcast is unknown, an AT&T representative says the provider sends its own letter to customers in addition to one written by RIAA. In it, it encourages subscribers to be more aware of the security of their Internet connection and control who accesses it.

The music industry is calling for ISPs to help them police illegal file sharers, arguing that the providers profit from their clients' illegal activity. RIAA's strategy is a progressive one, with the first step being the cease and desist letter, while repeat offenders will be punished, likely in the form of suspension or termination of service. So far, none of the involved ISPs have threatened to cut off or otherwise disrupt service. [via CNET]

By Electronista Staff

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industry, AT&T, RIAA, Comcast, Cox