Plusnet has accused a former customer, Simon Chapman, of acquiring a "database comprising the email addresses of some 95,000 customers.". Interestingly Chapman, whom denies the allegation, was one of two subscribers that Plusnet removed after they were critical of the ISP's service (HERE).

The letter, which was sent by "solicitors acting for PlusNet Plc.", starts:

Our client has received information that you have acquired a database comprising the email addresses of some 95,000 customers of PlusNet (the database). Our client has received further information that you are proposing to use the database to email customers of PlusNet, either directly yourself or through a third party.

Your possession and use of the database is an extremely serious matter, involving a number of criminal and civil sanctions.

The message goes on to highlight a number of points regarding 'Data Protection' and 'SPAM' laws, which would indeed be most valid for such a situation. The letter finishes by requesting said information be returned and a written confirmation that it will not happen again.

Chapman has since issued the following reply/denial:

Your client is suffering from paranoia. I do not possess, nor have I ever possessed, a database of PlusNet customers' e-mail addresses.

Your letter is ludicrous, unwarranted and a waste of my time. Any further e-mails from you will be treated as spam and reported as such.

It’s presently unclear where Plusnet’s accusation is based and how they came to the thinking that Chapman might posses such information, certainly an ISP would have to have strong proof of wrong doing before pursuing such a serious line, wouldn’t it?