Copyright infringement can be a very difficult topic to discuss - and ultimately, if you're the account holder, then you are responsible for everything that is downloaded using your account details.

Preventing copyright infringement on your account can be technical and quite difficult. Please read the below information, and if you need any further clarification, please contact our Technical Support team on 0800 89 2000.

Some common causes of copyright infringement via the Internet are listed below:

• File Sharing Applications: A computer system in your household may have file sharing applications installed upon it. These applications have many uses, but they can be used to share material that is protected by copyright.
  • We suggest that you check your computer for any programs or applications that you are not familiar with.
• Viruses or Trojans: Some computer viruses or trojans may take control of some functions of your computer and then use your computer for copyright infringement.
  • We suggest that you install and use an antivirus program to check your computer regularly for infections. Slingshot offers a comprehensive antivirus software called ESET NOD32.
• Other Users: If you share your Internet connection or computer system with other users, such as your family or co-workers, then these individuals may be using your connection to infringe copyrights.
  • We suggest that you monitor the usage of your Internet connection or home computer.
• Unsecured Access: If you use a wireless modem, you may not have secured it to prevent others from using your Internet connection. If copyright information is downloaded from your connection through an unsecured connection you may be held responsible as the owner of the broadband account.
  • We suggest that you consult the user guide that came with your modem for further information on how to configure your wireless modem to prevent unauthorised access, or contact our technical support team.
• Hosted Material: If you host a website, then this may have been hacked and infringing copyright material could be incorporated without your knowledge.
  • We suggest that you inspect your website to ensure that no copyright protected content is incorporated within it.