Federation Against Software Theft calls for block on persistent file sharers

The Federation Against Software Theft (Fast) has called for ISPs to build a central database of users that could be used to block persistent file sharers.

John Lovelock, chief executive at Fast, said that his organisation is able to identify people using peer-to-peer applications to trade in pirated software.

The organisation would be willing to hand over the evidence to ISPs if they were prepared to take action against offending users.

"If the intellectual property industry can provide evidence for the courts then we can provide the same generally to ISPs," said Lovelock.

He explained that this course of action would be cheaper than going through the courts, and would allow for a much faster reaction against software pirates.

In cases where an offender was identified it would be up to the ISP to decide whether to warn the user or cut off their internet access.

But Lovelock called for ISPs to create a central database of persistent offenders, so that those who carried on file sharing would be blacklisted and unable to get internet access.

"People will see being shut down completely as a deterrent," he said.