Virgin Media and the British Phonographic Institute (BPI) are to send warning letters to customers they believe are downloading or distributing music illegally. The announcement represents the first such public deal between the BPI and an ISP.

The pair hope that the new campaign will avoid users risking disconnection and possible legal action. "Virgin Media's fibre optic broadband is a great platform for people who want to download lots of music," said Virgin Media in a statement. "But we want them to do so without infringing the rights of musicians and music companies."

Customers whose accounts appear to have been used to distribute music in breach of copyright will receive "informative letters" from Virgin Media and the BPI.

Whilst I dont condone illegal downloading, everyone has done it from time to time, its like speeding, people dont admit to speeding, but 80% of people do creep over the limit from time to time