Virgin May Try '3 Strikes' for File Sharers

Virgin Media may become the second ISP to unplug users who share files illegally, the Register reports. The company is in talks with a UK record industry association over a  "three strikes" system, which would disconnect users who share copyright-infringing files after two warnings. "We are taking this problem seriously and would favor a sensible voluntary solution," Virgin Media said.

The UK government has threatened Internet providers with legislation if they do not enact such a voluntary system. Last summer, the British Phonographic Industry prevailed upon EU telecom Tiscali to try a three-strikes plan, but disputes over cost-sharing led the company to bail out. (Read more file sharing stories.)