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The Progressive

NewsWire

A project of Common Dreams

For Immediate Release

Demand Progress Spills the Beans on Comcast/AT&T/Verizon Anti Net-Neutrality 'Three Strikes' Plan

Internet service providers would restrict web access for users accused of infringement

WASHINGTON

Entertainment industry sources are leaking that they've convinced Internet service providers to start restricting people's web access. If users are accused of downloading or streaming three files ISPs will consider disrupting those users' Internet connections -- and maybe even decide what sites they're allowed to visit.

The Motion Picture Association of America and Recording Industry Association of America have convinced companies like Comcast, AT&T, Verizon, and others to voluntarily create a "Three Strikes" policy to restrict certain users' web access. CNET reports that Internet service providers will respond to online file sharing accusations with censorship tools like:

  • "Throttling down" Internet bandwidth and speed;
  • Limiting access to the Web;
  • Controlling what websites users are allowed to visit;
  • And requiring users to attend pirate school to be educated on copyright law.

"This is yet another corporate attack on Internet freedom," said Demand Progress Executive Director David Segal. "Vague definitions of copyright infringement and a complete absence of due process mean that just about all Americans are at risk of having their web access disrupted. And in violation of Net Neutrality principles, ISPs will dictate which sites users can view."

Demand Progress amplifies the voice of the people -- and wields it to make government accountable and contest concentrated corporate power. Our mission is to protect the democratic character of the internet -- and wield it to contest concentrated corporate power and hold government accountable.