Australian ISPs Might Sever Connections to Infected PCs

Though I have watched with disdain at some of the things being done to infringe on rights in Australia lately, especially where internet connectivity is concerned, a new suggestion being made down under seems very logical.

Computer systems that are found to be malware infected will have their connections severed, after the steps of contacting the owner are taken.

While I can see the chance for much abuse, the basic idea is sound, and as long as procedures are followed, and documented, I see no reason why this should not be enacted. It certainly would put a stop to the thought of remotely controlled bot-nets from the land of ’shrimps on the barbie’.

from slashdot

“Australia’s Internet Industry Association has put forward a new code of conduct that suggests ISPs contact, and in some cases disconnect, customers that have malware-infected computers. ‘Once an ISP has detected a compromised computer or malicious activity on its network, it should take action to address the problem. ISPs should therefore attempt to identify the end user whose computer has been compromised, and contact them to educate them about the problem,’ the new code states. The code won’t be mandatory, but it’s expected the ISP industry will take it up if they are to work with the Australian Government in preventing the many botnets operating in Australia.”

Perhaps this is one of those things that should be done everywhere. If network nodes could be shut down easily, again, after following proper procedures, much stress could be alleviated from some networks (and those who oversee them).

I’m sure this will be kicked around for quite some time, however, because of the idea that pervades the ether, that the internet should be as free and unregulated as possible.

It’s one of those issues that has good points on both sides – making it that much harder to work out.

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