AT&T Considering Online Filtering

AT&T and several partners are considering means of implementing network filtering technology that would block the transfer of copyrighted media, according to a recent panel at the annual Consumer Electronics Show. The technology would allow an ISP to continuously scan for material that appears to be copyrighted. Privacy groups have long expressed concern regarding such methods of data surveillance.

“Whatever we do has to pass muster with consumers and with policy standards. There is going to be a spotlight on it,” commented an AT&T executive. “We’ve got to figure out a friendly way to do it, there’s no doubt about it.” (More Consumer Electronics Show stories.)