*lulu7*
0
run a small Internet service provider (ISP) in the UK. We’re running into some financial problems and could do with some advice.
Our chief engineer says that we could save money by using ‘open source’ software, but I’m not sure what it means in legal terms. I know that Open Source Software gives us more flexibility as flaws can be detected easier and initial cost is free. Would you recommend we take out insurance to cover our backs?
We’re also losing a lot of money through denial of service attacks – i know they are unlawful under the computer misuse act 1990, how do we identify IP addresses though?
We have heard through the Association of ISPs that we now have to retain user records. I know the new EC directive has been extended to ISPs and that we are to retain records for 12 months? That sounds expensive; I know why we have to do this as the government feel this will increase national security etc, however there has been debate as to whether small ISPs will be reimbursed by the government?
Can we use the data we collect to provide targeted advertising? as long as we have consent, are there any laws that cover this besides the Data Protection Act.
Finally, about network neutrality, will it affect me here in the UK and what is the current state of the law and the future for my business being a small ISP?
Our chief engineer says that we could save money by using ‘open source’ software, but I’m not sure what it means in legal terms. I know that Open Source Software gives us more flexibility as flaws can be detected easier and initial cost is free. Would you recommend we take out insurance to cover our backs?
We’re also losing a lot of money through denial of service attacks – i know they are unlawful under the computer misuse act 1990, how do we identify IP addresses though?
We have heard through the Association of ISPs that we now have to retain user records. I know the new EC directive has been extended to ISPs and that we are to retain records for 12 months? That sounds expensive; I know why we have to do this as the government feel this will increase national security etc, however there has been debate as to whether small ISPs will be reimbursed by the government?
Can we use the data we collect to provide targeted advertising? as long as we have consent, are there any laws that cover this besides the Data Protection Act.
Finally, about network neutrality, will it affect me here in the UK and what is the current state of the law and the future for my business being a small ISP?























