Thread: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
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Old 29-04-2008, 13:25   #5034
AlexanderHanff
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Re: Virgin Media Phorm Webwise Adverts [Updated: See Post No. 1, 77, 102 & 797]
Quote:
Originally Posted by BetBlowWhistler View Post
Something interesting for you to ponder..

BT have been looking at ways to implement this technology without the use of cookies for several weeks now. For them to say that are still looking at ways to achieve it simply says they haven't found a way yet, and I think I know why.

It can't be done without re-structuring their ADSL infrastructure. Want to take bets on whether they do that?

If the 10,000 random test users can't be identified (by their own admission) how are they going to ever be able to differentiate between an opted-in customer and an opted-out customer without DPI (Deep Packet Inspection) for something that identifies them ? Even if they could achieve this (I can think of one way but it's severely flawed - I'm not going to say it as they'll probably try it or at least use it for spin purposes) how are they going to re-direct the users data-streams accordingly so one goes to the profiler and the other doesn't without breaking RIPA?

I design networks for a living, and whilst I'm not 100% familiar with the DSLAM;s etc, I am very familiar with the IP infrastructure at BT and I say it can't be done without something major changing in BT Retails' network which will cost them more than they would gain from this deal.

Their best bet to get this thing off the ground is to get the law changed to allow them to do it. uk.gov hasn't been saying much recently has it?
Actually it is perfectly feasible for people who want to be involved in the Phorm "system" to have a flag added to their user account details which will allow them to be assigned IPs from specific blocks of IPs which are routed through Phorm. If the flag is not set (it should be disabled by default) then the customer gets assigned an IP from the non Phorm blocks and routed directly to the Internet without going near Phorm's kit.

It is trivial in many respects, needs an alteration to a database table and trivial changes to some config files. It would keep all non conphormists away from the Phorm kit.

Of course it would still not be legal because they are still required under RIPA to get consent from all parties regarding interception, then there is the Fraud Act, PECR, Computer Misuse Act, Copyright, Designs and Patents Act and Torts (Interference with Goods) Act on top of all that which all require consent as well.

So they may be able to fix the legal issues from the perspective of the ISPs customers, but I fail to see any way they can navigate the legal obstacles from the perspective of the rights of content owners.

Oh and

Alexander Hanff
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