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Australian ISPs Soon To Become Copyright Cops

srjh writes "In the Australian Federal Government's latest assault on the internet, draft legislation has been released that allows network operators to intercept communications to ensure that their networks are being 'appropriately used.' Such legislation is particularly important given the interference of Communications Minister Stephen Conroy in a recent copyright lawsuit against iiNet, one of the largest ISPs in the country. Conroy called prominent filtering opponent iiNet's inaction over copyright infringement 'stunning,' whereas iiNet claimed that it would be illegal under current Australian law to intercept its users' downloads. While this latest legislation appears to be a concession of that point, the government is said to be watching the case closely and along with attempts to introduce a three-strikes law in Australia, it appears the law will be changed if the government dislikes the outcome of the case. The internet villain of the year just continues to earn his title."

6 of 183 comments (clear)

  1. Re:Stephen Conroy by Stormwatch · · Score: 4, Funny

    ballet box

    Wow! Dancing and fighting at the same time!

  2. Re:Stephen Conroy by dotgain · · Score: 2, Funny
    Agreed - it's the same here in New Zealand.

    Except our chicks are hotter.

  3. Re:Stephen Conroy by dangitman · · Score: 5, Funny

    Except our chicks are hotter.

    Yes, we're well aware of your predilection for farm animals. You can keep that to yourself in future.

    --
    ... and then they built the supercollider.
  4. Re:Mesh network (poll) by SanguineV · · Score: 2, Funny

    Both, of course. a) for the nerds, b) for the technically inept.

    Of course, then they would be declared illegal, and would be rounded up.

    I dream of the day when the technically inept are rounded up!

  5. Re:Stephen Conroy by twostix · · Score: 2, Funny

    Troll?? What a waste of a mod point ya tool.

  6. Re:What the fuck by Merls+the+Sneaky · · Score: 2, Funny

    I have a simple rule in Australian politics. Never vote the last guy in again. Keep the bastards on their toes.