ISP accused of installing malware on 600,000 customer PCs to interfere with torrent traffic

Jun 27, 2024

KT, a Korean ISP, installed malware on 600,000 customer PCs to block torrent traffic, violating multiple laws. The scheme aimed to reduce bandwidth costs.

ISP accused of installing malware on 600,000 customer PCs to interfere with torrent traffic

: KT, a major Korean ISP, installed malware on 600,000 customers' computers to interfere with torrent traffic, aiming to reduce network management costs. An investigative report by JBTC revealed the ISP's actions, which extended beyond previous allegations of throttling. The Gyeonggi Southern District Police Office is investigating possible violations of the Communications Secrets Protection Act and the Information and Communications Network Act.

KT, a prominent Korean Internet Service Provider, has been accused of installing malware on around 600,000 customer PCs. This action aimed to interfere with and block torrent traffic to manage high-bandwidth usage and reduce network costs.

An investigative report by JBTC discovered that KT's tactics went beyond previous throttling, impacting users of popular Webhard services. The company reportedly formed dedicated teams to develop, distribute, and operate malware to eavesdrop and limit file transfers.

The Gyeonggi Southern District Police Office conducted a search and seizure of KT's data center and headquarters. The police believe KT may have violated the Communications Secrets Protection Act and the Information and Communications Network Act, identifying 13 individuals, including KT employees, for further investigation.