Swedish ISPs to stop logging IP addresses

Worried about the privacy implications of a new copyright law, several ISPs in Sweden have vowed to stop logging IP addresses for users.

Service provider Tele2 said that it would no longer be logging IP addresses in order to preserve user privacy and anonymity.

The move comes in the wake of new antipiracy directives which allow copyright owners to request that service providers hand over IP addresses of user while investigating possible software piracy and copyright infringement cases.

Following enaction of the law, web traffic in Sweden plummeted.

According to reports, Tele2 made the decision after receiving a considerable outcry from its users over privacy implications.

When it does begin the practice of deleting IP data, Tele2 will hardly be alone. Fellow Swedish telcos AllTele and Bahnhof both vowed to take up similar policies earlier this month, also citing outcry from customers.

Software piracy and copyright violation has become a top issue in Sweden, which recently played host to the high-profile case against the owners of the controversial Pirate Bay website.

The four owners of the site were sentenced to one year of jail time for operating the Pirate Bay service, which allowed users to find and exchange pirated materials. Attorneys in the case have called for a retrial due to a possible conflict of interest from the judge.

Copyright ©v3.co.uk
Swedish ISPs to stop logging IP addresses

What are your thoughts on this article? Add your comment below.

To begin commenting right away, you can log in below or register an account if you don't yet have one. Please read our guidelines on commenting. Offending posts will be removed and your access may be suspended. Abusive or obscene language will not be tolerated. The comments below do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of SC Magazine, Haymarket Media or its employees.

NOTE: You must be a registered member of SC Magazine to post a comment.

Click here to login | Click here to register
comments powered by Disqus
Sign up to receive SC Magazine email newsletters
   FOLLOW US...
Most Read