The discussion centers around the implications of ISPs and the RIAA monitoring internet traffic for illegal downloads, with a focus on concerns regarding privacy and the potential for overreach. Participants express discomfort with the idea of traffic policing, even if they personally do not engage in illegal downloading. There is a mention of the monitoring being targeted at large illegal peer-to-peer and BitTorrent sites, with users receiving notices if caught downloading illegal content. Some participants highlight the connection between major ISPs and cable companies, suggesting that existing monitoring infrastructures could be easily adapted for this purpose. The conversation touches on fears of a slippery slope toward increased surveillance and control over internet usage.
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