What is Service Abuse?

Internet Service Providers use the term "Abuse" to describe actions and activities considered a misuse of Internet access. Some common Internet activities that fall into this definition of abuse are:

• Allowing unauthorised users to access your Plusnet service
• Using Internet access to gain unlawful access to private computer systems or networks
• Breaching UK law in respect to copyright infringement or publication of materials that is libel or indecent or insulting
• Engaging in spamming
• Using Internet access to menace or harass others
• Using Internet access in a manner identified as unlawful by law enforcement or legal authorities
• Port scanning other people's computers/networks

This list is not definitive. More information on what constitutes abuse is available in our Acceptable Use Policy and under section 11 of the terms and conditions.

Spam and intrusion attempts (by port scanning) are the most common forms of abuse that are reported to us. Virus or Trojan infections, rather than malicious users cause the majority of these abuses. The security guide tells you how to deal with virus infections.

Also see How To Report Service Abuse.

This page last updated 17th February 2009