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-   -   Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797] (https://www.cableforum.uk/board/showthread.php?t=33628733)

popper 10-04-2008 00:00

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
1 Attachment(s)
its werth posting it here if its not to big.
i thumbnailed it to CF just incase it goes missing on the bt servers later.

as you can see they are still collecting your datastream and checking/processing for a cookie or other data on your PC, only now it's BT not the Phorm kit doing the collecting and processing.

plain as day, you refuse/decline ,they try and write an unauthorised data cookie to your machine without permission.

do you think they dont quite get it yet!

unicus 10-04-2008 00:15

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by popper (Post 34524625)
its werth posting it here if its not to big.

as you can see they are still collecting your datastream and checking for a cookie or other data on your PC, only now it's BT not the Phorm kit doing the colecting and processing.

plain as day, you refuse/decline ,they try and write an unauthorised data cookie to your machine without permission.

do you think they dont quite get it yet!

They absolutely don't get it. The 'rules engine' has to intercept your communication which is not legal without your consent which they can't know without using their 'rules engine'. Hence they fall at the first hurdle - no need to look any further.

Stupid system :dunce:

mark777 10-04-2008 00:35

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Winston Smith (Post 34524620)
Fair enoujgh, but which is going to grab the headline:

Men in suits and ties attend meeting;

or:

Spiderman says No to spying.

I see where you are coming from and in a real world I would agree with you, but without a serious sponsor (and so far we have nothing more than tech blogs), we have to get our views across. And to be fair 'Fathers for Justice' aare now seen as a serious pressure group

I really want to see the headlines as well. Awareness is building slowly, but it is building. It needs to be based on concerned professionals.

A publicity stunt plays right into their hands. Fathers 4 Justice have been climbing up things for years. I'm not prepared to wait years for Phorm to be 'reversed', once it's here it will never go away.

Most of the general public believe the doctors who tell you that this drug is a lifesaver, rather than the people dressed up as beagles who do not like how it was researched in the first place.

We need to really think about this because we could end up kissing this campaign goodbye.

---------- Post added at 00:35 ---------- Previous post was at 00:17 ----------

I've just posted this in the meeting thread.

"I'm not so certain that it's a good idea for this thread should be split from the main one. There are plenty of people who can't get to the meeting, but would like to be involved in the discussions about it.

We dont have seperate threads for RIPA or ICO etc.

It might be a good idea to have a thread about anouncements regarding the meeting. i.e. where to meet up etc., perhaps a temporary 'sticky' if the mods would agree?

But I do think the discussion for all this should be kept in one place."

Anyone agree?

serial 10-04-2008 00:52

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
I like the idea but I can just see the headlines the next day "Anonymous hijacks privacy debate", "Internet hackers fight for their privacy". I think the talk will be against Phorm anyway, we don't need masks.

Also i asked about filming the event, 8020 thinking:

"We are holding this meeting in as transparent a manner as possible, and as
such would be happy for you to bring along your camcorder should you so
wish"

3x2 10-04-2008 01:06

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
It's nice that the ICO think opt-out cookies are the way to go but it still doesn't deal with RIPA. It is illegal to intercept (in the world and purposes of BTPhorm) my communications. Intercepting my communications to find out whether or not I have given you permission is still an illegal interception. End of.

If ISP's and Phorm wish to continue there must be two distinct paths through their system. Path one - as is, no interception. Path two - opted in (proxy changed on my machine?) Phorm wire-tap.

"we will check your cookie", "We promise not to look" is still an illegal interception of communication.

manxminx 10-04-2008 01:15

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
I've also had a reply from 80/20 Thinking re my request for a webcast or podcast of the meeting. The reply I received was privileged and confidential, but what I can say is that so far I am very happy with the response I received. Being ever hopeful, I'll say watch out for some public news about this tomorrow (err, later on today as it's gone 1am and time for bed!)

Ali.

popper 10-04-2008 02:49

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Alex @ Phorm (Post 34524263)
Alex @ Phorm here

With regard to PECR, the law is quite clear stating that any system requires valid, informed consent.

We believe the approach that we will take to user notice will not only provide for such consent, but will in fact exceed the level of notice provided by anyone else.

We also believe, as has been the case with the DPA and RIPA, that closer scrutiny will demonstrate that the way in which we obtain consent will substantially exceed any legal requirement.

http://blog.phorm.com/

its usually a good idea to put carrage returns in your text now and then. i did it for you this once.


you didnt answer the question are you a 3rd party PR for Phorm?

and you can confirm, as an agent of Phorm, this is the approach to user notice you instructed BT to use in this newest diagram from BT ?

http://www.cableforum.co.uk/board/at..._diagram70.gif
achived at CF for safe keeping OC.

80/20Thinking 10-04-2008 03:43

Phorm public meeting
 
Dear all,

Following our email responses to some of you, I just wanted to confirm that we are looking to webcast the proceedings of the Phorm public meeting on Tuesday in London. We're hoping the technology at the theatre will allow this, but please do bring along vid cameras if you wish, just to be on the safe side.

Best wishes

Simon Davies
MD, 80/20 Thinking Ltd
www.8020thinking.com

popper 10-04-2008 04:21

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
hi simon, iv asked you this before elsewere, but it might be nice if you gave an official response on this longest Phorm related thread as your posting here.

how come it took you so long to follow the clear and simple official PIA rules as i pointed out here.#1398 18-03-2008

reproduced:
"
and if you can find the time, the rules that need to be followed for that Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) is here
http://www.ico.gov.uk/upload/documen...l/1-intro.html

did they follow all the provisions ?

i wonder

http://www.ico.gov.uk/upload/documen...preparing.html

"...
2. Undertake a stakeholder analysis


Those who may see themselves as 'having a stake' in the project should be identified at an early stage. This may include:
  • the organisation conducting the project, and perhaps also various sub-organisations within it;
  • other organisations directly involved in the project;
  • organisations and individuals that are intended to benefit from it;
  • organisations and individuals that may be affected by it, and possibly
  • organisations that provide technology and services to enable it
It is advisable to document the results of the stakeholder analysis in an appropriate form, most likely a one-page summary.

...
"


---------- Post added at 04:06 ---------- Previous post was at 04:01 ----------

Quote:

Originally Posted by 80/20Thinking (Post 34524696)
Dear all,

Following our email responses to some of you, I just wanted to confirm that we are looking to webcast the proceedings of the Phorm public meeting on Tuesday in London. We're hoping the technology at the theatre will allow this, but please do bring along vid cameras if you wish, just to be on the safe side.

Best wishes

Simon Davies
MD, 80/20 Thinking Ltd
www.8020thinking.com

thats good to know, a few highspeed wireless connections might be in order for all concerned too, i do hope we dont just get low framerate mobile phone webcam footage.

---------- Post added at 04:21 ---------- Previous post was at 04:06 ----------

a live managed IRC session as pointed out earlyer here might also be a good way to better fulfill your PIA individuals stakeholder analysis

after all, its currently at an estimated 70% plus of the whole UK individuals.

and adaptable web poll, in case some new information comes to light and needs adressing live.

remember its not a marketing exercise, its a PIA to collect the information.

ask a live question, click a vote, mark it's result down, simple and effective.

Portly_Giraffe 10-04-2008 08:05

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Ref http://cryptome.org/ho-phorm.htm (dated 11 March 2008), I have emailed Simon Watkins to ask him:

(1) On what basis do you think website owners' consent to interception is generally implied (para 15)? What if the web page presented formed part of a private or tailored communication with the user - for example, a commercial quote or a message?

(2) How lawful is it if opted-out users still have their communications intercepted and inspected anyway, just not analysed?

dav 10-04-2008 08:24

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Portly_Giraffe (Post 34524744)
Ref http://cryptome.org/ho-phorm.htm (dated 11 March 2008), I have emailed Simon Watkins to ask him:

(1) On what basis do you think website owners' consent to interception is generally implied (para 15)? What if the web page presented formed part of a private or tailored communication with the user - for example, a commercial quote or a message?

(


More to the point, how are Phorm going to identify websites that specifically deny consent to interception? All a website owner has to do is include a line of text stating that they do not consent to that site, or even a particular page on a site, being intercepted and the ISP is breaking the law. I'd be interested to know how the system is going to identify and differentiate between consensual and non-consensual pages without intercepting them to find out, especially as no information has been forthcoming about what site owners should put in their robots.txt file.

jca111 10-04-2008 08:49

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by mark777 (Post 34524617)
Sorry, but I have to disagree.

It's best that people go as suited professionals, carrying a briefcase etc.

Phorm would love for this to be characterised as an anti-global, dressed up as beagles, nutter fringe.

Outwardly there is no good reason for them to be doing this, so be careful. They have something up their sleeves.

I'm all for getting this wider coverage, but not like this.

I have to agree with you - if you turn up wearing sci-fi masks etc. you will just be portrayed as a bunch of mad geeks in the press.

We want the public to empathise with us - not them to think we are loonies.

Please dont wear masks!!!

manxminx 10-04-2008 09:07

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by dav (Post 34524751)
More to the point, how are Phorm going to identify websites that specifically deny consent to interception? All a website owner has to do is include a line of text stating that they do not consent to that site, or even a particular page on a site, being intercepted and the ISP is breaking the law. I'd be interested to know how the system is going to identify and differentiate between consensual and non-consensual pages without intercepting them to find out, especially as no information has been forthcoming about what site owners should put in their robots.txt file.

Although I was wrong re the PECR and websites (thanks to Alexander for clarifying that), I still feel that if end users need to give explicit consent, then so do website owners.
Quote:

Originally Posted by Popper
a live managed IRC session as pointed out earlyer here might also be a good way to better fulfill your PIA individuals stakeholder analysis
after all, its currently at an estimated 70% plus of the whole UK individuals.
and adaptable web poll, in case some new information comes to light and needs adressing live.
remember its not a marketing exercise, its a PIA to collect the information.
ask a live question, click a vote, mark it's result down, simple and effective.

I agree. All internet users in the UK will be affected by Phorm, therefore, all internet users should be able to participate in this meeting. A webcast is good, but it's less than ideal.

Ali.

P.s. If it were a protest march, then yes, masks/costumes would be appropriate. However, this is a serious meeting designed to fulfil requirements under the PIA, please respect it as such.

dav 10-04-2008 09:36

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by manxminx (Post 34524771)
Although I was wrong re the PECR and websites (thanks to Alexander for clarifying that), I still feel that if end users need to give explicit consent, then so do website owners.


I agree. All internet users in the UK will be affected by Phorm, therefore, all internet users should be able to participate in this meeting. A webcast is good, but it's less than ideal.

Ali.

P.s. If it were a protest march, then yes, masks/costumes would be appropriate. However, this is a serious meeting designed to fulfil requirements under the PIA, please respect it as such.

:tu: I agree on all points

JosiesGrandpa 10-04-2008 09:41

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
I seem to spend ages getting rid of spyware etc and now they are trying to pretend its good!!!!!

jca111 10-04-2008 10:05

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Hi - I think we need to spread the profile of this story outside of Technical News sites (like The Register, BBC Technical section etc).

Today I have emailed Radio 4s Today Programmme, World at One, PM, Click and even Newsnight the following email. Please advise if there are other places we should be sending it.

Quote:

I'm writing to you to see if you would be interested in covering the Privacy storm that is brewing with a UK company called Phorm.

You may or may not be aware of the company, but I will aim to give a brief summary here, so see if you would be interested in compiling an article to raise awareness of this Company

Phorm, previously known as 121Media (a known computer spyware company), had created a system that can be installed at ISP (Internet Service Providers) that can intercept and monitor ALL your web browsing habits with the purpose of serving you related adverts on the internet. According to Phorm the system is completely anonymous, and there is no way of tracing the gathered information back to the user.

Phorm currently claim they are in advanced talks with Virgin Media and Carphone Warehouse, and are (and have) conducting trials with BT. This system could potentially affect over 70% of the UK ISP market.

However, over the last few months a rebellion has started to form on various internet blogs about the interception methods that Phorm use, and some people think that this interception is a breach of privacy etc.

A few issues that have been raised are this:

1. The system as it currently stands is Opt-Out. That means that if you do nothing your browsing habits will be profiled by the system. Indeed if you regularly "clean" your PC with many popular cleaning products then you will be automatically opted back in because the "cookie" (a small file held on your computer by your internet browser) will be removed

2. BT conducted a trail in 2006 and 2007, without informing the users, this is possibly illegal under the Data Protection Act and RIPA (Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000), which makes it illegal to intercept communications without a warrant from the Home Office or consent of both parties (in this case consent would have to be given by the User and the Website Owner)

3. Is Internet Browsing information personal information? for example one may be able to glean information about your Health, Sexuality, Political Preferences etc.

4. Does the system break The Fraud Act 2006? Dr Richard Clayton white paper on how Phorm works states

"The Layer 7 switch will see that the request does not contain a Phorm "cookie" and will direct the request to a machine located within the ISP network that will pretend to be www.cnn.com and will return a "307" response which says, in effect, "you want that page over there". The page that will be directed to is webwise.net/bind/?<parameters>where the parameters record the original URL that was wanted."

The key is "will pretend to be www.cnn.com" (or obviously any other website you are surfing).

Without permission from the host website, it appears that you cannot pretend to be another company/person. Phishing is a prime example of impersonation of a company.

5. Does the system break PECR (Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations)? Are both parties entitled to a private communication?

6. Other regulations that there are question marks about include:
Human Rights Act 1998
European Convention on Human Rights
Computer Misuse Act 1990
Torts (Interference with Goods) Act 1977
Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988
Council of Europe's Convention on Cybercrime

7. Phorm appear to have employed a massive PR team to post on internet blogs positive information about the company. They have also admitted to deleting negative information from their Wikipedia page (http://www.theregister.co.uk/2008/04...ors_wikipedia/).

8. Dr Richard Clayton a Cambridge University security researcher and member of the Open Rights Group and FIPR, attended an on-the-record meeting with Phorm, and has published his account of how their advertising system works, and has declared that he is unhappy with the system (http://www.lightbluetouchpaper.org/2...ebwise-system/) and believes it is illegal under RIPA 200.


I could go on, but the point of the email is to raise awareness of the issue. At the moment there is a "tecchie" groundswell against this system on blogs, and I feel that it needs a higher profile and debate as it could affect the privacy of most UK Internet Users.

An event is happening next week (http://www.8020thinking.com/events) to discuss this system. Could it be worth covering?

I've included some links for your reading if you want to take this story further.

http://www.phorm.com/
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2008/04...phorm_tougher/
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2008/04...orm_interview/
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/7283333.stm
http://www.cableforum.co.uk/board/12...l#post34524506
http://www.iii.co.uk/investment/deta...scussion&it=le

I hope you decide to cover this story. Should you require any information, please do contact me

CaptJamieHunter 10-04-2008 10:24

Re: Phorm public meeting
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by 80/20Thinking (Post 34524696)
Dear all,

Following our email responses to some of you, I just wanted to confirm that we are looking to webcast the proceedings of the Phorm public meeting on Tuesday in London. We're hoping the technology at the theatre will allow this, but please do bring along vid cameras if you wish, just to be on the safe side.

Best wishes

Simon Davies
MD, 80/20 Thinking Ltd
www.8020thinking.com

Uh-oh... feels like I got up on the wrong side of the traffic island this morning...

Simon - Thanks for posting and nice to see the points about bringing along video cameras. "Hoping" isn't really a positive action though - surely the venue can confirm whether or not webcasting is possible? If it isn't then will a full audio recording be made and posted online with a full transcript? Spin can only be countered by truth.

As an individual who will be affected by this I certainly want to have input in your PIA document. Getting my crocked body to London may well not be remotely viable, so you can look forward to my e-mail.

As has already been mentioned, the V masks could get people confusing anti Phorm people with Anonymous - read a link off El Reg comments somewhere that says Saturday is another demo day. I spend far too much time reading that site!!!

80/20Thinking 10-04-2008 10:55

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by popper (Post 34524700)
hi simon, iv asked you this before elsewere, but it might be nice if you gave an official response on this longest Phorm related thread as your posting here.

how come it took you so long to follow the clear and simple official PIA rules as i pointed out here.#1398 18-03-2008

Actually, I can't really fault Phorm on this one. The ICO only launched the PIA initiative last December, and Phorm contacted us in January. Hardly anyone knew such a process existed until then. We started the work as soon as we could clear our diaries. Given those circumstances we had to reconstruct the ICO guidance along a different timeframe.

---------- Post added at 10:55 ---------- Previous post was at 10:38 ----------

Quote:

Originally Posted by CaptJamieHunter (Post 34524822)
Uh-oh... feels like I got up on the wrong side of the traffic island this morning...

Simon - Thanks for posting and nice to see the points about bringing along video cameras. "Hoping" isn't really a positive action though - surely the venue can confirm whether or not webcasting is possible? If it isn't then will a full audio recording be made and posted online with a full transcript? Spin can only be countered by truth.

Looks like the best we can do is Wireless through BT OpenZone, though I'm not sure what sort of speed we'd be working wit. I'm on the case. One way or the other we'll be able to get the content out, and probably also take questions via email.

Icoms07 10-04-2008 11:31

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
You should see what Virgin Media Staff think about this on out intranet site! Were all really angry about this too. The powers that be need to look at peoples opinions! (JUST LIKE THE PREMIUM RATE TECH SUPPORT NUMBER!!!)

lucevans 10-04-2008 11:46

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Icoms07 (Post 34524855)
You should see what Virgin Media Staff think about this on out intranet site! Were all really angry about this too. The powers that be need to look at peoples opinions! (JUST LIKE THE PREMIUM RATE TECH SUPPORT NUMBER!!!)

Thanks for the info, Icoms07 - Would you be able to drop any anonymous quotes here for us? ;)


We now have pretty clear statements of intent from both BT and TalkTalk, but still nothing from VM.
Hello? Virgin Media? Is anybody home? Your customers demand to know what you plan to do with their accounts. We're waiting...and this isn't going to go away, no matter how long you stay silent...

unicus 10-04-2008 12:05

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Ok I've looked a bit more at how BT plan to use Phorm (see http://webwise.bt.com/webwise/customer_choice.html) though there's no indication whether that's how it was set up in the previous 06/07 trials and that would probably only ever be revealed if taken to court.

In the diagram the client is connected to the rules engine but it shows that only http traffic goes there so in-between there is some protocol filtering equipment that is not shown or the diagram is wrong and the rules engine reads all the data and determines which is http.

If the former is correct then it would be trivial to route only 'opted-in customers connections' to the rules engine to determine if they currently want to be 'Phormed'. By 'opted-in customers connections' I mean that if a system like this were to be implemented the express consent of the paying customer (who they have a contract with) is required before they can asked the current web user on the connection if they agree to be 'Phormed'. They would therefore have to contact the customer beforehand by email or post to get informed consent and then it would be the customers responsibility to inform anyone using the Internet connection that they have consented.

As it is it does not comply with the law. They (in this case BT with Phorm 'aiding & abetting'/inciting) are planning to intercept the data not for a purpose they they have the right to do. What happens after the interception is irrelevant as they do not have the lawful right to intercept in the first place.

It is clearly obvious that Phorm have tried hard to comply with the law and distance themselves from the data interception and they may not be directly controlling the interception in the current BT model but they are complicit. Though Phorm have tried it is all in vain as the root of their system, their idea, is to track millions of web users and can only realistically be achieved by breaking the law. The possible model I outlined above, that may comply with the law, would gain them very few customers and not enough revenue. Sorry Phorm your business model is no go.

And I haven't even bothered with the privacy issues or the mountainous task of getting website owners permission.

manxminx 10-04-2008 12:53

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
There's an excellent discussion on the BT Phorm thread re websites and webmasters. One person says:
Quote:

I've decided to remove all Phorm/Webwise blocks, so I can see what is going on.

If I get the chance to opt-in to the trial I probably will do so, for the sake of being able to monitor what is happening, at least so as to be able to see the opt-in page, and monitor the cookie situation.

As an opted in customer I would also like to visit my own websites, and see what ends up on the logs when a Webwise infected visitor like me arrives.
I think that's an excellent idea. I'm really looking forward to reading his results.

dav 10-04-2008 12:56

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
What we need is lots of Phorm-haters to take up the 10000 places on the trial and flood them with massively bad feedback!

AlexanderHanff 10-04-2008 13:31

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Any one noticed there has been no movement of Phorm stock on the markets this morning?

Alexander Hanff

mark777 10-04-2008 13:35

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by AlexanderHanff (Post 34524972)
Any one noticed there has been no movement of Phorm stock on the markets this morning?

Alexander Hanff

They released their results today, I don't know if trading gets suspended for the day when that happens?

jca111 10-04-2008 13:37

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by AlexanderHanff (Post 34524972)
Any one noticed there has been no movement of Phorm stock on the markets this morning?

Alexander Hanff

Yeah - i've noticed that in iii. But there are a load of positively spun News articles and results on there! Still saying they have "exclusive agreements" with Virgin Media - despite us all being told otherwise elsewhere! Starnge - someone is telling a half truth - but who????

Dunno why no movement either way tho.

bigbadcol 10-04-2008 13:38

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Phorm Inc - Final Results posted today.

The results state a lot of things as fact that we all know not to be true. From the provacy perspective, and VM state they have not yet signed a contract etc.

On frst reading the info poste don the ii site do look to be a manipulation of the market, considering the info is misleading in light of our current knowledge of the company

Maybe some mail sent to the FSA, and stock market regulator will be in order.

Can anybody help with the draft of a letter?

And Hi PhormUKPRteam,:handshake maybe you can shed some light on the marketing spin.

jca111 10-04-2008 13:41

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by mark777 (Post 34524977)
They released their results today, I don't know if trading gets suspended for the day when that happens?

Not as far as I know - no reason to suspend due to 2007 results being out.

But there have been no trades so far today, last 5 trades below:

Time/Date Price Volume Trade value Type
16:23:49 09-Apr-2008 1,525.00 1,000 15,250.00 Ordinary Trade
16:11:55 09-Apr-2008 1,500.00 1,000 15,000.00 Ordinary Trade
15:47:53 09-Apr-2008 1,485.00 500 7,425.00 Ordinary Trade
15:46:00 09-Apr-2008 1,475.00 2,000 29,500.00 Ordinary Trade
15:12:08 09-Apr-2008 1,485.00 150 2,227.50 Ordinary Trade

lucevans 10-04-2008 13:42

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by manxminx (Post 34524933)
There's an excellent discussion on the BT Phorm thread re websites and webmasters. One person says:

I think that's an excellent idea. I'm really looking forward to reading his results.

Yes, it's a necessary evil if we want to prevent this rolling out: if everyone who was against it boycotted the trial, they'd have a sample group that, by-and-large, wouldn't have a clue what was happening to their web browsing (which is exactly what BT, TT and VM would like).

It has been clear (and indeed they have gone on record saying) that the ISPs are eager for people to not even notice this is happening - in my view, a very dangerous scenario.

Of course, the guinea pigs will see a one-time-only opt-in/opt-out page, but that's likely to be worded to make it sound as if all this technology does is protect you from phishing. Most average people will just click yes to get past it and go to what they were trying to see in the first place.

So will I sign-up to any future Virgin Media trial? Well, I'd have to switch browsers first...my current browser of choice is not on the Phorm whitelist apparently, so according to the BT schematic posted earlier today, I wouldn't even see the trial invitation screen. Hmmm. Tough choice.

roadrunner69 10-04-2008 13:45

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by dav (Post 34524936)
What we need is lots of Phorm-haters to take up the 10000 places on the trial and flood them with massively bad feedback!

Unfortunately they will almost certainly get a flock of sheep believing the safer internet crap spouted by the phorm spin machine.
Does anyone have any real hope that the opt-in blurb will be upfront & honest?
Think of all the 'YOUR PC IS FULL OF SPYWARE AND WE CAN FIX IT' (for a fee) crap that still scare many internet users into parting with their £.
These people are experts in the scareware bull**** so we must keep going with
educating friends, family, colleges, businesses and anyone else who will listen not to be taken in by these scammers.
(rant over)

mark777 10-04-2008 13:46

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Wish I had one share. Now would be a good time to sell it for a fiver.;)

lucevans 10-04-2008 13:48

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by bigbadcol (Post 34524983)
Phorm Inc - Final Results posted today.

The results state a lot of things as fact that we all know not to be true. From the provacy perspective, and VM state they have not yet signed a contract etc.

On frst reading the info poste don the ii site do look to be a manipulation of the market, considering the info is misleading in light of our current knowledge of the company

Maybe some mail sent to the FSA, and stock market regulator will be in order.

Can anybody help with the draft of a letter?

And Hi PhormUKPRteam,:handshake maybe you can shed some light on the marketing spin.

Could trading be suspended if the authorities strongly suspected that elements of the financial statement were inaccurate? And if so, would they have to announce the fact on trading sites like iii? It does seem rather unusual...

I've just had a thought...maybe it's something to do with the share issue that's upcoming?

roadrunner69 10-04-2008 13:49

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by mark777 (Post 34524997)
Wish I had one share. Now would be a good time to sell it for a fiver.;)

I'd want more than that to take it off your hands;)

AlexanderHanff 10-04-2008 13:56

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
One thing I find amusing which I don't think they have thought of yet, is their description (by Kent) of how the Opt-In will work.

They claim all users will be sent to a web page the first time they log in after Phorm goes live, where they will get the option to opt in. So 10 million internet subscribers around the UK (once all 3 ISP deploy) are going to be greeted with a full page spam page offering protection from Phishing and advertising. Not unlike the countless pieces of adware/spyware/malware out there that people associate as virus'. So 10 million people are going to be saying:

"WTF!!! Noooo not again!"<forces a system check with all anti-virus/adware/spyware software on their computer>

When nothing is found they will simply Opt Out thinking it is some browser hijacker that isn't in their anti-virus/adware/spyware definitions yet.

An interesting point does arise though. If they are going to be presented with the opt-in page on next login, that should be interesting. How many people regularly login and out of their broadband service? I know I don't and I have a stable line so I rarely get resets, I get uptimes of 6+ months on a session. Are the ISPs going to force a login reset on users? What if this causes problems with for example, backing up critical data at a remote location?

Alexander Hanff

mark777 10-04-2008 14:19

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by AlexanderHanff (Post 34525010)
An interesting point does arise though. If they are going to be presented with the opt-in page on next login, that should be interesting. How many people regularly login and out of their broadband service? I know I don't and I have a stable line so I rarely get resets, I get uptimes of 6+ months on a session. Are the ISPs going to force a login reset on users? What if this causes problems with for example, backing up critical data at a remote location?

Alexander Hanff

I assume the page will pop up the first time I open my browser after they turn it on.

So instead of getting my home-page, i've been intercepted and diverted.

Screen shot captured and off to plod with a RIPA complaint?

---------- Post added at 14:19 ---------- Previous post was at 14:05 ----------

At the register

http://www.theregister.co.uk/2008/04..._ad_targeting/

"American ISPs already sharing data with outside ad firms"

fidbod 10-04-2008 14:19

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
I wouldn't read too much into the lack of share price movement.

There are so few shares in issue for Phorm that it is unlikely to be traded that often.

Also at the moment shareholders have two options - sell their shares and crystallise their loss or hold on and hope for a recovery.

Inaction is always easier than action which is why I think there are no trades in the security.

AlexanderHanff 10-04-2008 14:20

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Personally, I think they should be required by law to put the following at the top of the page:

"BT/VM/TT have entered into an agreement with Phorm Inc., to monitor your web browsing in order to build a profile and serve you with targeted advertising; and to warn you when you are trying to access a web site which is known to be a security risk.

We will monitor your web activities using Deep Packet Inspection which allows us to intercept and read all the information in your traffic data. As a result we are required to obtain your consent to do this under the following laws and statutes of the United Kingdom (and Europe):

European Convention on Human Rights
Council of Europe's Convention on Cybercrime
Privacy and Electronic Communications (EC Directive) Regulations 2003
Human Rights Act 1998
Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000
Computer Misuse Act 1990
Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1998
Fraud Act 2006
Data Protection Act 1998
Torts (Interference with Goods) Act 1977

We recommend you read a technical analysis of this service written by Dr Richard Clayton from Cambridge University. A copy of the report can be found here.

We also recommend you read all of the Laws and Statutes listed above before making an informed decision on whether or not to subscribe to this service."

See now -that- would be Informed Consent if the user opted in after such a notice. Of course the downside is, how can the user read the Acts and Technical report without either opting in or opting out of Phorm first, given the current page is the only web site they can access.

Alexander Hanff

Alex @ Phorm 10-04-2008 14:32

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Hi Alexander

Thanks for coming back on the offer to speak to Kent

Let me know a couple of times and dates next week that would work for you so that I can get that this into Kent's diary. Also, which chatroom would you prefer to use?

As soon as I have that info, we'll get this arranged

Alex @ Phorm

Florence 10-04-2008 14:47

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by 80/20Thinking (Post 34524828)
Looks like the best we can do is Wireless through BT OpenZone, though I'm not sure what sort of speed we'd be working wit. I'm on the case. One way or the other we'll be able to get the content out, and probably also take questions via email.

If they have money I kow a company that hires out a mobile satalite BB van with all needed to work news coverage for large boat shows.

bigbadcol 10-04-2008 14:53

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
hi Alex @ Phorm;

Who are you. PR company, work for Phorm directly or what?

Why have Phorm posted inaccurate statements in the statement today.

Plese let kent know I am writing a formal complaint to the financial authorities about the matter, as the statement is misleading given the current statement by VM that they have not yet signed to use your system, amongst other things.

Once again a lack of truth and you still expect us to trust you!!!!

many thanks

jca111 10-04-2008 15:18

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Hi Alex @ Phorm

Why do you come on here with all your PR Spin from Phorm, but refuse to answer questions sent to you either privately or as posts on this board?

Whats the point in that? - that's not portraying an honest and open company, it makes you appear like you are hiding stuff! So you have failed in your PR job horribly!

So please stop the spin if you are going to post here, and start answering directly questions sent to you - without spin - if its is at all possible for you to do that!

Florence 10-04-2008 15:22

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by jca111 (Post 34524981)
Yeah - i've noticed that in iii. But there are a load of positively spun News articles and results on there! Still saying they have "exclusive agreements" with Virgin Media - despite us all being told otherwise elsewhere! Starnge - someone is telling a half truth - but who????

Dunno why no movement either way tho.

http://www.theregister.co.uk/2008/04...ents/#c_197366

Quote:

@Virgin Media's Silence
By Anonymous Coward
Posted Thursday 10th April 2008 10:32 GMT

Her manager was more useful, and mentioned that Webwise was supposed to be in place by now, but wasn't because of media and public backlash. This didn't square with the CEO office guy, who said that they are still very much in the initial stages of exploring the technology, so something doesn't quite add up there.
That wouild make me think it is all signed just been put back until the dust settles.

I also noticed a member on ISPreview saying he has been told by VM when he called in to cancel that the contracts are automaticaly renewing 12 months and if he wants to leave he has to pay the remainding months. He has been a customer of Blueyounder for years.. Is this the act of a desperate company.

jca111 10-04-2008 15:48

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Finally a trade today - only a small one tho.

15:13:27 10-Apr-2008 1,485.00 250 3,712.50 Ordinary Trade

AlexanderHanff 10-04-2008 15:52

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Florence (Post 34525092)
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2008/04...ents/#c_197366



That wouild make me think it is all signed just been put back until the dust settles.

I also noticed a member on ISPreview saying he has been told by VM when he called in to cancel that the contracts are automaticaly renewing 12 months and if he wants to leave he has to pay the remainding months. He has been a customer of Blueyounder for years.. Is this the act of a desperate company.

I could be wrong on this but I seem to remember reading something about automatically renewing contracts. If I remember correctly you can only be locked in for the first term after that any automatic renewal can be cancelled without penalty.

Something along those lines anyway. I may have read about it on the consumer action group website.

Alexander Hanff

popper 10-04-2008 16:02

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by 80/20Thinking (Post 34524828)
Actually, I can't really fault Phorm on this one. The ICO only launched the PIA initiative last December, and Phorm contacted us in January. Hardly anyone knew such a process existed until then. We started the work as soon as we could clear our diaries. Given those circumstances we had to reconstruct the ICO guidance along a different timeframe.

---------- Post added at 10:55 ---------- Previous post was at 10:38 ----------

Looks like the best we can do is Wireless through BT OpenZone, though I'm not sure what sort of speed we'd be working with. I'm on the case. One way or the other we'll be able to get the content out, and probably also take questions via email.

i dont see a problem, given this PIA effects a mass of the UK populas, and that campus students will more than likely come in contact with this at some point, then they to are in some way effected by this.

a quick search
http://www.soas.ac.uk/business/business.html

http://search.virginmedia.com/result...ryUK&x=50&y=14
indicates that they have

http://www.soas.ac.uk/soasnet/govern...comm/34125.pdf
"
SCHOOL OF ORIENTAL AND AFRICAN STUDIES
ACADEMIC SERVICES COMMITTEE
MINUTES
Wednesday 19 October 2005
(c) Streaming
The Head of Learning and Teaching Strategy spoke to a paper (Appendix E), reporting on the successful delivery of streaming technology to support learning and teaching, to stream plenary lectures of the summer’s AEGIS conference, and to record and stream for on-demand access the School’s inaugural lectures. A demonstration by the E-Learning Trainer at the recent planning day, showing how multimedia and streaming developments might support the School’s strategic development, had been well received, and the E-Learning Trainer was thanked for his efforts. A proposal for a blended-learning course, combining on- and off-campus delivery, would be brought to the next meeting of Learning and Teaching Policy Committee.
"

"
(d) Wireless Networking
The Information Technology Manager spoke to a paper (Appendix F) on the planned piloting of wireless networking in the School, noting a slight change in that the control network switches were due to be replaced in the next 12 months, not 6 as suggested by the report. The use of wireless cart technology was suggested, and it was noted that the Information Technology Manager would consult on the teaching rooms and other locations which would initially be covered by the pilot. It was agreed that information about the pilot should be communicated to the student recruitment team, as the availability of a wireless network was a major selling point in the recruitment of new students. "



surely it must be possible to have a word with the network tech's there and tap into this available kit so as to cover this UK wide individuals stakeholder analysis

---------- Post added at 16:02 ---------- Previous post was at 15:52 ----------

if you cant arrange good free wireless streaming net coverage on a UK campus your not trying hard enough ;)

and BTW , private Email questions are not appropriate for a public PIA.

you must open this up realtime for all partys to contribute and be heard publicly.

kt88man 10-04-2008 16:06

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Concerning these phorged cookies that Richard Clayton refers to (B 20-25)...

User 'Mark H' over on the BT forum makes quite an interesting point.

http://www.beta.bt.com/bta/forums/th...rt=37&tstart=0

Ah, I notice that PhormUKPRteam are lurking, perhaps they will spin an answer.

Stuart 10-04-2008 16:13

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Florence (Post 34525092)
I also noticed a member on ISPreview saying he has been told by VM when he called in to cancel that the contracts are automaticaly renewing 12 months and if he wants to leave he has to pay the remainding months. He has been a customer of Blueyounder for years.. Is this the act of a desperate company.

Unless they have made a massive change to their terms of service (which would, incidentally, allow any customer to terminate their contract with 30 days notice), then VM were lying. You can terminate the contract by giving 30 days notice after the initial 12 months.

From http://allyours.virginmedia.com/html...ble/terms.html section J 1

Quote:

This agreement will continue until the end of the minimum period for each service you take. After the end of all relevant minimum periods, any party may end this agreement by giving the other 30 days' notice. You must pay any relevant usage charges and line rental up to the end of that 30-day notice period. You may also cancel a service after the end of its minimum period by giving us 30 days' notice.

jca111 10-04-2008 16:21

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by kt88man (Post 34525127)
Concerning these phorged cookies that Richard Clayton refers to (B 20-25)...

User 'Mark H' over on the BT forum makes quite an interesting point.

http://www.beta.bt.com/bta/forums/th...rt=37&tstart=0

Ah, I notice that PhormUKPRteam are lurking, perhaps they will spin an answer.

from http://www.beta.bt.com/bta/forums/th...rt=37&tstart=0 Mark H wrote:
Quote:

Another thing with the cookie situation, they forge cookies for sites, without the sites explicit consent. As others have pointed out, this leaves a situation that sites who don't normally set cookies can/will have them set on their behalf.

How much trouble could this cause for websites that don't set cookies and include a statement in their privacy statement or policy saying they don't and won't set cookies?

Webmaster: "We don't set cookies, we don't need to, and don't want to."

Website User: "You are lying, every time I visit your site you set a cookie."

Webmaster: "No, we don't, there's something wrong here obviously, can you provide proof please?"

Website User: provides screenshots and examples of the cookie "See, I told you that your site was setting cookies."

Exactly who has broken the privacy policy set by that website at this point?
This is a very good point. Also - is a cookie copyright? If I, as a website site owner state that my site is copyright - surely this includes the cookie? So, by them messing with it - are they in breach of my copyright?

Alex @ Phorm - could you answer this for us?

bigbadcol 10-04-2008 16:21

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
hi phorm

I am waiting for an answer please.

You know it is rude to ignore somebody when being asked a question. But what can be expected considering teh company you represent.

hey ho just more badphorm:dunce:

ceedee 10-04-2008 16:43

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
I've been patiently waiting for several days for an answer to a query I posted to the Phorm blog but have just noticed that loads of earlier posts (and their respective comments) have been 'disappeared'.

So that's *another* element of netiquette that they feel is okay to ignore...

:mad:

Florence 10-04-2008 16:46

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Thanks Stuart I have PMed him to sign up here to get help dealing with this jsut hope he does. I also pointed out that i had canceled and would leave before the month I originally joined cable BB.


For all others has anyone read this http://www.cl.cam.ac.uk/~rnc1/080404phorm.pdf

Stuart 10-04-2008 17:14

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by popper (Post 34525116)

if you cant arrange good free wireless streaming net coverage on a UK campus your not trying hard enough ;)

Indeed..

http://support.it.soas.ac.uk/connect/wireless

As they are part of the eduroam system, anyone who is a student of, or a member of staff at a college or uni that is also part of this system, can log in.

popper 10-04-2008 17:33

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
hmm thats odd, that http://support.it.soas.ac.uk/connect/wireless doesnt seem to be a valid web connected url.

did you access it from inside janet or something, it doesnt work on vm dns at least.

AlexanderHanff 10-04-2008 17:36

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
I have just been talking to a friend of mine who works for Google. I have asked him to talk to his superiors on the prospect of Google implementing an SSL version of their search pages.

This would be a great move by Google and would win them huge Kudos in the current climate not to mention it would be beneficial to them as well. By sending search requests over SSL they would be making it more difficult for their competitors (people like Phorm) to build profiles for targeted advertising.

Google could advertise it with something like "Google now offers secure searching!".

I really think it would be a great move for them.

My friend is going to talk to some of his colleagues and get back to me.

I am also going to contact Kim Cameron who wrote an article here, to field the idea of MSN search also offering SSL capability for the same reasons as Google.

I will try and find someone at Yahoo! as well.

Alexander Hanff

mark777 10-04-2008 17:43

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Secure search :-

https://ssl.scroogle.org/

Stuart 10-04-2008 17:52

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by popper (Post 34525201)
hmm thats odd, that http://support.it.soas.ac.uk/connect/wireless doesnt seem to be a valid web connected url.

did you access it from inside janet or something, it doesnt work on vm dns at least.

I actually got the link from the excel spreadsheet listing all the eduroam partners at http://www.ja.net/services/authentic...t-roaming.html


Seems the server is dead though..

AlexanderHanff 10-04-2008 17:52

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Yes I already know about scroogle, but I would rather not go through a 3rd party.

Alexander Hanff

alferret 10-04-2008 17:54

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by mark777 (Post 34525213)
Secure search :-

https://ssl.scroogle.org/

Excellent :tu:

SMHarman 10-04-2008 18:08

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by jca111 (Post 34524981)
Yeah - i've noticed that in iii. But there are a load of positively spun News articles and results on there! Still saying they have "exclusive agreements" with Virgin Media - despite us all being told otherwise elsewhere! Starnge - someone is telling a half truth - but who????

Dunno why no movement either way tho.

Both are telling the truth IMHO. Phorm and VM have an exclusivity agreement in place in that VM will implement Phorm and has stopped evaluating competing technology. That exclusivity agreement gives VM the ability to opt out or not implement. Both can say what they are saying.

ceedee 10-04-2008 18:53

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by AlexanderHanff (Post 34525205)
I will try and find someone at Yahoo! as well.

Recommend you contact Tom Coates, who recently posted to his blog:
Quote:

I'm deeply troubled by Phorm. This seems to be a service that could only be reasonably offered to a site owner, not an ISP...
I mean, otherwise, there's a precedent for surveillance where we just sort of have to take Phorm's word for the idea that they're not tracking personal or private stuff. It seems particularly sinister to me.
Tom is a very experienced internet fiend, terribly well connected and evidently a nice chap too.
He's based in London so might even be persuaded to make an appearance on Tuesday evening...

AlexanderHanff 10-04-2008 19:07

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
emailed Tom:

Hello Tom,

I noticed on your blog that you are deeply concerned about the news in the UK with regards to Phorm.

As Yahoo's foundations are laid in the search engine industry do you feel that Phorm are a direct competitor? If so, have you thought about approaching your superiors with regards to Yahoo implementing SSL versions of their search pages?

In the current climate this would be a welcomed move by Yahoo by their users; but would serve twofold in making it more difficult for the likes of Phorm to leech off the back of your service in order to line their own pockets. If they are unable to intercept data from Yahoo search requests using Deep Packet Inspection technologies because they are sent over SSL, it makes their business model less viable and in turn helps to secure Yahoo's market share.

This would be a prime time for Yahoo to announce such a service and would, I expect, receive significant coverage in the online press.

I have contacted friends who work for Microsoft and Google who will be discussing the same idea with their superiors. If the three main search engines could take a united stance on this issue it would send a clear and resounding message to the general public that you do value privacy.

Sincerely

Alexander Hanff

Ursine 10-04-2008 19:18

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Hi All.
First post, don't know if this has been posted already, hope it's useful:angel:

http://www.computerweekly.com/blogs/...-independ.html

In a new twist, the most influential voice in the identity space has now spoken out on the topic: Microsoft's identity guru Kim Cameron agrees that 'opt-out' implementations of Webwise are in breach of the Laws of Identity. This is important - Kim is shaping the principles that will drive future privacy-protecting identity systems, and if Phorm is an inappropriate third-party in the online identity relationship then they have a real problem on their hands.
It's very likely that attention will shift to BT and VirginMedia, who have both been very quiet indeed about their 'opt-out' approach to Phorm (TalkTalk are off the hook because they have taken a more privacy-friendly 'opt-in' approach). The real test will be whether those providers start to lose business over this, particularly in Croydon and Ealing, where further trials of OIX and Webwise are due soon. That will show whether the protesters are representative of the broader user community, of if this is a niche issue that most users either don't understand or don't care about. Watch this space.


Interesting bit about Croydon & Ealing
Bear

AlexanderHanff 10-04-2008 19:29

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
I wonder how long it will be before Phorm "reconfigure" the hardware during an "update" so that it changes search engine results to place their advertising partners at the top. If done correctly it would be very difficult to detect and prove.

Alexander Hanff

---------- Post added at 19:29 ---------- Previous post was at 19:21 ----------

I just sent a follow-up email to Tom:

Hello again Tom,

I should have included this in my first email but it just occurred to me. It would be possible for Phorm (using the deep packet inspection technology) to alter search results on their way back to the user in order to place their advertising partners at the top of the list. If done correctly, I can't see how it would be detectable as my understanding is most search engine results are at least pseudo random, at best it would be difficult to detect and further prove. Given the history of the Phorm executives in the Spyware industry (121media) this could represent a significant threat to search engine business models.

Regards

Alexander Hanff

kt88man 10-04-2008 19:30

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by AlexanderHanff (Post 34525278)
I wonder how long it will be before Phorm "reconfigure" the hardware during an "update" so that it changes search engine results to place their advertising partners at the top. If done correctly it would be very difficult to detect and prove.

Alexander Hanff

@Alexander

How could you suggest such a thing? :shocked:

We all know how ethical Kent's company is... they would never stoop so low. :D

AlexanderHanff 10-04-2008 19:41

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by kt88man (Post 34525287)
@Alexander

How could you suggest such a thing? :shocked:

We all know how ethical Kent's company is... they would never stoop so low. :D

All it would take is a little bit of regex.

Alexander Hanff

Alex @ Phorm 10-04-2008 19:41

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
My apologies to bigbadcol, jca11 and ceedee - you're right I've got some things to learn about netiquette

bigbadcol: I work for Phorm not a PR agency. I'm not sure what your point is about Virgin Media. We do have agreements with it, BT and TalkTalk - we reiterated that in a financial statement today. Plus Virgin approved the press release we issued on 14 February

jca11: I have passed your question to our legal guy and will chase for an answer for you.

ceedee: Probably the person most in need of an apology since it seems you sent in your question a while back. I'll pick that one up first since it has been outstanding the longest

And yes, I know Alexander has a list of questions as long as your arm, which I'm trying to get answered. Lawyers can be slow in the speed of their responses so please bear that in mind - it just seems to the way they work

Alex @ Phorm

mark777 10-04-2008 19:44

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
:welcome: Ursine


Another Guardian article :-

http://blogs.guardian.co.uk/technolo..._and_more.html

ceedee 10-04-2008 19:53

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Alex @ Phorm (Post 34525296)
ceedee: Probably the person most in need of an apology since it seems you sent in your question a while back. I'll pick that one up first since it has been outstanding the longest

No problem, Alex.
After all, I *am* working to put you out of work...
;)

kt88man 10-04-2008 20:02

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by AlexanderHanff (Post 34525295)
All it would take is a little bit of regex.

Alexander Hanff

That's why the whole thing is scary... We've also all read their patent...

Another thought... To be of any real value in targeting adds one would need some demographic information... I wonder how that could be obtained... Nuff said...

SMHarman 10-04-2008 20:05

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by kt88man (Post 34525308)
That's why the whole thing is scary... We've also all read their patent...

Another thought... To be of any real value in targeting adds one would need some demographic information... I wonder how that could be obtained... Nuff said...

Because your UBR name has nothing to do with your geographic location.

---------- Post added at 15:05 ---------- Previous post was at 15:04 ----------

Quote:

Originally Posted by mark777 (Post 34525298)
:welcome: Ursine


Another Guardian article :-

http://blogs.guardian.co.uk/technolo..._and_more.html

Quote:

Phorm can't seem to get the hang of staying out of the news (possibly because it's now hired a small army of PR people). So here's your roundup on what's been going on.

Isn't that the point of PR people to get you in the news without the need to pay for advertising.

popper 10-04-2008 20:05

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
i didnt see this one posted from yesturday so here ya go
http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/0...-your-surfing/

as a service for the US readers looking in, i thought id just mention NebuAd alongside Phorm as we in the UK might be seeing them soon anyway.

http://news.google.com/news?oe=utf-8...hl=en&q=NebuAd

http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/0...ref=technology

http://www.marcporcelli.com/2008/04/...nspection-dpi/

i read a comment somewere the other day that NebuAd are another re-named spyware companys but cant find the reference now.

and strange as it seems NebuAd dont have a http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special...?search=NebuAd that needs correcting perhaps.

Alex @ Phorm 10-04-2008 20:05

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by ceedee (Post 34525304)
No problem, Alex.
After all, I *am* working to put you out of work...
;)


I hope not - I'm enjoying all the work you guys and gals are generating for me! ;)

AlexanderHanff 10-04-2008 20:08

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Shameless Digg request:

http://digg.com/tech_news/Is_Phorm_a...search_engines

Alexander Hanff

popper 10-04-2008 20:20

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
you have to join digg to do it but thats OK...

AlexanderHanff 10-04-2008 20:36

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by popper (Post 34525328)
you have to join digg to do it but thats OK...

Well yes but I expect many of us are already registered there :)

Alexander Hanff

---------- Post added at 20:36 ---------- Previous post was at 20:27 ----------

Search Engine search terms are probably one of the most valuable assets of a clickstream with regards to building profiles. So if this data suddenly became unavailable due to SSL it should have a significant impact on the efficiency and value of the Phorm "product".

By showing that this is a real risk to search engines it allows the search engines to look at managing this risk through methods like SSL.

Alexander Hanff

popper 10-04-2008 20:48

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Alex @ Phorm (Post 34525296)
My apologies to bigbadcol, jca11 and ceedee - you're right I've got some things to learn about netiquette

bigbadcol: I work for Phorm not a PR agency. I'm not sure what your point is about Virgin Media. We do have agreements with it, BT and TalkTalk - we reiterated that in a financial statement today. Plus Virgin approved the press release we issued on 14 February

jca11: I have passed your question to our legal guy and will chase for an answer for you.

ceedee: Probably the person most in need of an apology since it seems you sent in your question a while back. I'll pick that one up first since it has been outstanding the longest

And yes, I know Alexander has a list of questions as long as your arm, which I'm trying to get answered. Lawyers can be slow in the speed of their responses so please bear that in mind - it just seems to the way they work

Alex @ Phorm

now you have confirmed your a real Phorm Employee,are we to assume your a real tech? or what are your dutys there?, it would be a good thing if you gave a direct answer to this #2807 question.


and a new one for you, iv asked this before elsewere, but who exactly is your Phorm legal guy?.

the UK guys name address and contact Number and business email address please, as well as the US legal guys in your Phorm employ or retainer etc.

and who was that QC you employed for the legal opinion, name, business address etc...

CaptJamieHunter 10-04-2008 21:06

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by AlexanderHanff (Post 34525318)
Shameless Digg request:

http://digg.com/tech_news/Is_Phorm_a...search_engines

Alexander Hanff

Posted on reddit too :)

AlexanderHanff 10-04-2008 21:12

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by CaptJamieHunter (Post 34525374)
Posted on reddit too :)

Thanks got a link? Anyone got or know anyone with posting rights at slashdot?

Alexander Hanff

CaptJamieHunter 10-04-2008 21:16

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by AlexanderHanff (Post 34525380)
Thanks got a link? Anyone got or know anyone with posting rights at slashdot?

Alexander Hanff

http://reddit.com/r/technology/

AlexanderHanff 10-04-2008 21:25

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Updated Wikipedia :)

Alexander Hanff

amateria 10-04-2008 22:06

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by SMHarman (Post 34525229)
Both are telling the truth IMHO. Phorm and VM have an exclusivity agreement in place in that VM will implement Phorm and has stopped evaluating competing technology. That exclusivity agreement gives VM the ability to opt out or not implement. Both can say what they are saying.

So the agreement is that VM might, or might not, one day agree some sort of commitment to the technology. And it won't look at any competing technologies for a while.

---------- Post added at 22:06 ---------- Previous post was at 21:27 ----------

[QUOTE=AlexanderHanff;

By showing that this is a real risk to search engines it allows the search engines to look at managing this risk through methods like SSL.

Alexander Hanff[/QUOTE]

Yes, it would be the logical next step for search engines. But it would be a shame if everyone's effort (search engines, users, would-be internet parasites) had to be expended in such an escalating arms race: efforts to repel the parasites would be met with ever more ingenious ways to overcome the "immune system" of the productive parts of the internet. Which would in turn cause more investment in defences against the parasites.

From an economic perspective, it would be far more efficient for regulators to enforce the laws against the parasites - so search engines (and we) can put our energies into productive or enjoyable activities, instead of fighting the effects of illegal surveillance. And people working for the parasites would get proper jobs.

popper 10-04-2008 22:46

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
http://www.techradar.com/news/intern...orm-ceo-315326
Internet

EXCLUSIVE: TechRadar interviews Phorm CEO

Is Phorm really quite innocuous after all

5 hours ago | Reader comments (0)

Alexander , go and post your laws broken list there and have some fun.

none 10-04-2008 22:54

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Graphics update, this time for webmasters.




Webmaster Banners

webmaster banner 80x15
[img]Download Failed (1)[/img]

Code:

http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/4913/webmasterbanner80x15qk0.jpg

webmaster banner 178x60 (gif)
[img]Download Failed (1)[/img]

Code:

http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/5262/webmasterbanner178x60lr3.gif

webmaster banner 178x60 (24-bit png)
[img]Download Failed (1)[/img]

Code:

http://img254.imageshack.us/img254/1926/webmasterbanner178x60du7.png

webmaster banner 300x19 v1.0
[img]Download Failed (1)[/img]

Code:

http://img253.imageshack.us/img253/1685/webmasterbanner300x19v1uz3.jpg

webmaster banner 300x19 v1.1
[img]Download Failed (1)[/img]

Code:

http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/7396/webmasterbanner300x19v1kp1.jpg

webmaster banner 350x19 v1.0.jpg
[img]Download Failed (1)[/img]

Code:

http://img388.imageshack.us/img388/9885/webmasterbanner350x19v1ra3.jpg

webmaster banner 350x19 v1.1.jpg
[img]Download Failed (1)[/img]
Code:

http://img388.imageshack.us/img388/3839/webmasterbanner350x19v1eg1.jpg



Webmasters, feel free to use these graphics on your site(s) as you see fit.

Keep up the good work everybody!!!

popper 10-04-2008 23:06

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
nice none.

<--- do you think you can take the virgin media for sale and add something funny in the for sale bit ;)

user data.
datastream.
user copyright. etc anything you like if its fun and related...

bigbadcol 10-04-2008 23:09

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Alex @ Phorm (Post 34525296)
My apologies to bigbadcol, jca11 and ceedee - you're right I've got some things to learn about netiquette

Why am I not surprised. ;)

After all a company who is pimping internet uses data. breaking all sorts of laws, and they have an employer who does not understand simple Neiquett.

Thanks for the laugh Alex.. Hope you can get a new job soon with your employment history.

I had this vision while at the brandy tonight....

The Scene Phorm has gone bankrupt. Alex at a job interview. Big internet company.. Office

New Company HR DROID: HELLO ALEX so You have come for a job Please tell
us why you left your last employer"

ALEX... I Worked for Phorm, they had this amazing system, targeting internet
users by there surfing history. It was anonimous and secure great
Phishing Filter as well

SOUND OF LAUGHTER

HR DROID: Great.... HAAAAAA. Security... HAAAAAA Thump crash

The chair falls to the ground and the droid gets up.

Sorry Alex, but I am so sorry .. HAAAA I cant help it, Phorm you say. I am so sorry we can not offer you a position, we have too much integrity to be associated with THAT company...

HR Droid leaves the room laughing.

END

popper 10-04-2008 23:22

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
NebuAd thinks its nearly ready to start up in the UK
(EU DC ;) ) what were their old adware name again ...., need to find that reference...

http://www.pcpro.co.uk/news/186462/p...y-outcome.html
"...
However, while Phorm is still in the experimental stage, NebuAd will soon have contracts in place to monitor 10% of American internet browsers, claims the company's founder, Robert Dykes, speaking to the New York Times.


Unlike Phorm, which uses cookies to track users, NebuAd uses people's
IP addresses as a unique identifier.

The company has a technique to identify when a user's IP address has changed, but will not disclose any information on how it achieves this.

A UK NebuAd office opened this year and the firm is currently in talks with a number of ISPs, claims Tony Evans, the UK commercial director.

Evans claims the company is waiting to fully understand the privacy implications Phorm is encountering before making a move into the market
"

serial 10-04-2008 23:26

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
NebuAd were previously Gator Corp, responsible for that fine piece of software that we all came to love and cherish ;-)

amateria 10-04-2008 23:28

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by popper (Post 34525494)
nice none.

<--- do you think you can take the virgin media for sale and add something funny in the for sale bit ;)

user data.
datastream.
user copyright. etc anything you like if its fun and related...

your passwords
your bank account
photographs of your children

your customer's orders
your business plans
your trade secrets

none 10-04-2008 23:30

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by popper (Post 34525494)
nice none.

<--- do you think you can take the virgin media for sale and add something funny in the for sale bit ;)

user data.
datastream.
user copyright. etc anything you like if its fun and related...


I'll have a stab at that over the weekend :P

popper 10-04-2008 23:40

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
yeah Gator thats the one thanks, we need a new http://en.wikipedia.org for NebuAd filled with all the Phorm like interesting DPI interception information as there isnt one yet.

hmm how odd, no Gator or Gator Corp eather on http://en.wikipedia.org

how did they manage that?

---------- Post added at 23:40 ---------- Previous post was at 23:31 ----------

thanks None ;)

serial 11-04-2008 00:00

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
The are now part of the Claria Corporation which has a wiki entry. Its this old trick where a company with a really bad reputation changes its name to hide its past. Now where have I also seen that lately ;)

Bonglet 11-04-2008 00:30

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
lmao these whole advertising companys are no more than the old companys of days gone by that would hijack browsers, install rootkits, fill you computer with adds you didnt want to ever see and for the most part destroyed normal internet users surfing experience back in the day.

I guess leopards cant change there spots and now there trying to do it legally instead of the old illegal methods that everyone caught onto and blocked out, now that all these guys are back on the scene we deserve everyone to be well informed and protest and put off these companys from ever trying to find out our details, i know i couldnt trust an isp with links to these really really dubious companys, hence the pr, tricks and stealth campaigns going on atm.

popper 11-04-2008 02:50

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by serial (Post 34525541)
The are now part of the Claria Corporation which has a wiki entry. Its this old trick where a company with a really bad reputation changes its name to hide its past. Now where have I also seen that lately ;)

well iv never edited a wiki before, but if you put gator in the search now, it seems to make it finally link to the 'Gator may refer to' page and from there Claria Corporation , i dont know if thats right, but at least you can find some information now.

is it werth looking for the NebuAd patents and related info ,much as Phorm, and linking this in, if they are intending to, or are already talking to the UK ISPs as implyed we might be wise to include them in our deliberations....

any wiki experts want to go and make the NebuAd links and info more accessable to the readers?

---------- Post added at 02:50 ---------- Previous post was at 00:57 ----------
its a shame (and against Neiquett) chris and TheRegister dont seem to get the real credit and linked for breaking this story fom other news outlets.

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/bu...le-807818.html
"
Online tracking firm Phorm sees losses double

By Sarah Arnott
Friday, 11 April 2008

Phorm, the online advertising service accused of illegally tracking individuals' web-browsing histories in order to target marketing, announced annual losses of $32.8m (£16.6m) yesterday.

The AIM-listed company recently signed partnerships with BT, Talk Talk and Virgin Media – which between them represent 70 per cent of internet service provision market.

A row blew up earlier this month when a think-tank branded the company's activities as intrusive, and in contravention of laws that require users' consent before web traffic data can be used...."

popper 11-04-2008 07:45

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
its a bit of a messy one using that thread software, but i think i covered the point as most people will understand it, what do you think alexander? did i forget anything!

http://blogs.guardian.co.uk/technolo..._and_more.html

Ravenheart 11-04-2008 07:52

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
An interesting page from 2005 with some of the names Gator Corp have used

HERE

manxminx 11-04-2008 08:13

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Many thanks for these banners None.

Although the use of these graphics is not being policed, may I please request that they are only used by webmasters and websites who are actively trying to block Phorm.

RamJet 11-04-2008 08:20

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
really good banners !

Great news from the online Independent today :-

"Online tracking firm Phorm sees losses double"

" Friday, 11 April 2008


Phorm, the online advertising service accused of illegally tracking individuals' web-browsing histories in order to target marketing, announced annual losses of $32.8m (£16.6m) yesterday"

Do we have an address - e:mail or otherwise to sign an opt-out with Virgin

I want to get mine in and acknowledged asap

Ravenheart 11-04-2008 08:40

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
I saw a piece on BBC breakfast that a council had spied on a family about school admissions, on there was a Liberty representative, stating that the council had used RIPA to do the surveillance and how outraged they were.

I got in touch with Liberty some time ago about about Phorm and it's online tracking plans, as yet they've not replied, so it's time for a more strongly worded letter to them I think. They also have a link to a Human Rights privacy laws easily explained site called Your Rights.

http://www.yourrights.org.uk/your-ri...cy/index.shtml

Raistlin 11-04-2008 08:45

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Sorry if I've missed them, but do we have any 'Signature' banners for people to use on forums?

jca111 11-04-2008 09:00

Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Alex @ Phorm (Post 34525296)
My apologies to bigbadcol, jca11 and ceedee - you're right I've got some things to learn about netiquette
...
jca11: I have passed your question to our legal guy and will chase for an answer for you.
...
Alex @ Phorm

Thanks Alex @ Phorm - I look forward to the honest, open and non-spun answers for my 2 questions about Fraud and Cookie Copyright!


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