hotspot - ISP that allow it?

h2009 · 10 May 2011 at 23:17

Hi there,
Just a quick question but it may be possible to turn into a big debate.

I've been asked to setup a simple wireless hotspot (configuration is no problem) but I mentioned to the lady I'll be doing it for about the 'legal' issue of doing it - i.e. which ISP don't mind you doing it.

I've had a quick look around at T&C's and it seems there are a lot of ISP that don't mention you can't 'resell or share' your connection. I've checked VM, Be, AAISP, etc.

Can anyone shed any light on this or does anyone have experience with this?

Thanks

AbsenceJam · 11 May 2011 at 06:31

They can't tell, so go for it. Of course you are responsible for what is done over the connection.

matthab · 11 May 2011 at 08:45

Much better using BT openzone or FON for this.

esK` · 11 May 2011 at 09:13

If you wanted to make a hotspot just close all ports apart from 80 and 165 ( ssl port IIRC ) That way you will only get internet traffic not torrents.

GaryH-21 · 11 May 2011 at 14:41

esK` said:
If you wanted to make a hotspot just close all ports apart from 80 and 165 ( ssl port IIRC ) That way you will only get internet traffic not torrents.

443 is SSL

esK` · 11 May 2011 at 16:31

Close... Ish lol

Azuse05 · 11 May 2011 at 19:46

esK` said:
If you wanted to make a hotspot just close all ports apart from 80 and 165 ( ssl port IIRC ) That way you will only get internet traffic not torrents.

Unfortunately this simply demonstrates your ignorance of torrents, which sadly is quite poor. They can run on any port.

AbsenceJam said:
They can't tell, so go for it. Of course you are responsible for what is done over the connection.

Not true. You are only responsible if someone breaks the law with your knowledge or consent. If someone abuses it after you've made the conditions clear, behind your back, then you aren't accountable. Unfortunately lawyers know this but will still profit by accusing you thus forcing you to contest. Well perhaps not, not sure how acs:laws pals are doing things atm. Did you know the fine the ICO handed out to them for loosing 6000 people details etc is only £1000? £800 if paid on time. The ICO is a bit of a joke tbh.

Zarf · 11 May 2011 at 23:37

h2009 said:
Hi there,
Just a quick question but it may be possible to turn into a big debate.

I've been asked to setup a simple wireless hotspot (configuration is no problem) but I mentioned to the lady I'll be doing it for about the 'legal' issue of doing it - i.e. which ISP don't mind you doing it.

I've had a quick look around at T&C's and it seems there are a lot of ISP that don't mention you can't 'resell or share' your connection. I've checked VM, Be, AAISP, etc.

Can anyone shed any light on this or does anyone have experience with this?

Thanks

AAISP for one are fine with you setting up an open wireless hotspot, I recall a blog post by the owner mentioning this as a workaround for the Digital Economy Act.

http://revk.www.me.uk/2010/04/dont-secure-your-wifi.html

revk said:
3. Tell your internet provider that you are now buying the service from them as a communications provider. Well, best to ask first in case they have any extra terms, AUP, or costs, but some (like AAISP) don't mind at all. In fact go further - advise then that sending you copyright infringement reports would cause you distress and alarm.

More details here - http://aaisp.net.uk/legal-cp.html
All you need to do is check a box on your user control panel to designate yourself a communications provider. Which is probably something anyone should do if anyone other that the person who pays the bill will ever use the connection.

h2009 · 12 May 2011 at 01:23

Thank you Zarf - those links were really helpful

AbsenceJam · 12 May 2011 at 04:58

Azuse05 said:
Not true. You are only responsible if someone breaks the law with your knowledge or consent. If someone abuses it after you've made the conditions clear, behind your back, then you aren't accountable. Unfortunately lawyers know this but will still profit by accusing you thus forcing you to contest. Well perhaps not, not sure how acs:laws pals are doing things atm. Did you know the fine the ICO handed out to them for loosing 6000 people details etc is only £1000? £800 if paid on time. The ICO is a bit of a joke tbh.

I am quite familiar with the law and all of this. Have you actually read the case and other relevant cases yourself? You're referring to obiter in a county court. It's a trifle, and current law differs.
ACS laws fine is for unrelated reasons and is only low because it's no longer trading so the former director has been fined after a statement of means.