The agreement between British Phonographic Industry (BPI) and TalkTalk broadband provider on the issue of prevention of illegal downloading of software which are copy right protected failed to materialize as the latter rejected the three-strikes method suggested by BPI. According to this method, the ISP would terminate the connection of their customers if they are found to indulge in downloading illegal software that includes music, video and other files.

The Telegraph reported the statement made by the CEO of the Carphone Warehouse, Charles Dunstone that clearly points out the ISP’s unwillingness to introduce the method that would threaten the rights of their customers as well as jeopardize the ISP’s own business interests.

"We are the conduit that gives users access to the Internet, we do not control the internet nor do we control what our users do on the internet. I cannot foresee any circumstances in which we would voluntarily disconnect a customer's account on the basis of a third party alleging a wrong doing. We believe that a fundamental part of our role as an internet service provider (ISP) is to protect the rights of our users to use the internet as they choose."

However, Dunstone’s statement seems to suggest that the music industry should find alternative course of action that would curb the roots of this issues instead of implementing a system that would punish the end users. As social networking sites and many other downloading sites are the real source of illegal file sharing, it is yet to be seen how the role of an ISP can help preventing their users from such activities.