The European Commission (EC) has once again written to the UK authorities to request an explanation of its response to BT's trials of Phorm's internet service provider (ISP) adware system.

Allegedly, the trials conducted by the company were illegal and Brussels is asking for answers about the use of the technology, reports The Register.

Officials from the European Union (EU) noted that there were no details about how future use of the software would be regulated.

The European Privay and Electronic Communications directive requires ISPs to give consumers notification if their details or data is in any way intercepted or used.

However, the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform found that Phorm's software could be used legally under certain circumstance.

It said that as long as all details are anonymous and consent is gained from the relevant consumers.

Despite this decision, a spokesman for Viviane Reding's Information Society and Media directorate-general told The Register that there were still questions that need answering.

Martin Selmayr commented: "We wrote to them again on the 6th [of October … For us the matter is not finished. Quite the contrary."

He added that the EU's latest missive asks questions about the current trial of the system.

Mr Selmayr said: "The UK's first response gave assurances that consumers will be protected. We are keeping a very close eye on this."

The UK has been given one month to respond to the queries, the same amount of time that has been given in the past.

Phorm offers targeted advertising which is based on the browsing habits of subscribers to ISPs.


Tuesday, 14th October 2008

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