“.. The Department of Internal Affairs’ (DIA) internet filter is now operational and is being used by internet providers (ISPs) Maxnet and Watchdog.
Thomas Beagle, spokesperson for online freedom lobby Tech Liberty says he’s “very disappointed that the filter is now running, it’s a sad day for the New Zealand internet”.
He told Computerworld the filter went live on February 1 but DIA has delayed announcing that until it held a meeting with its Independent Reference Group.
He says he’s disappointed the launch was conducted in such a “stealthy mode”.
The manager of the Department of Internal Affairs’ Censorship Compliance Unit, Steve O’Brien, denies any subterfuge in the launch, saying the trial has been going on for two years and that has been communicated to media for “quite some time”.
“The Independent Reference Group has met and the filter system processes were demonstrated as set out in the code of practice, that is that the website filtering system prevents access to known websites containing images of child sexual abuse,” says O’Brien.
Beagle says the DIA refuses to say which other ISPs will be joining the filter, claiming the right to negotiate in secret.
However, Tech Liberty understands that Telstra Clear, Telecom and Vodafone have said they will implement the filter, with Orcon, Slingshot and Natcom saying that they won’t.
Vodafone spokesman Paul Brislen says Vodafone took part in the filter trial and is awaiting word from the DIA about the next steps.
The company will likely use the filter, he says, and when it does customers will be informed.
Orcon CEO Scott Bartlett says it is not true to say Orcon will not be taking part.
“We are still working with officials to fully evaluate this and ensure it doesn’t impact on our customers’ experience,” he says.
O’Brien says there is no compulsion for ISPs to tell their customers their internet service is being filtered.
“It’s a voluntary system and there’s no legislation,” he says, adding he understands the ISPs currently on the system have informed their customers.
David Zanetti, technical spokesperson for Tech Liberty, says he fears the stability of the New Zealand internet will be at risk..”
go to source/story>>New Zealand’s internet filter goes live | Stuff.co.nz
