ISPs counter uSwitch claims

Those media savvy people over at uSwitch have dropped a bit of a clanger today in issuing a press release stating that some unlimited ISPs such as Virgin Media are actually applying limits, when all they seem to do is cut of people who are infected with viruses etc.

Virgin Media seem to have been quick to pounce on this, as were BT (who actually do have some limits).

"A Virgin Media spokeswoman claimed the company's best broadband package is unlimited in terms of the amount of data users can download. However, Virgin Media customers sign an acceptable use agreement which means action can be taken if customers are affecting the quality of service for others.

This could include spending excessive time using their connection, which could slow the network, or being the source of rogue activity (e.g. botnets) that could harm others.

Of customers on unlimited broadband contracts, the BT spokesman said people will only be cut off in exceptional circumstances - such as running a small business over a consumer connection or constantly downloading content."

More coverage of uSwitch's claims:

• Times Online
• Web User
• PC Pro