As the Internet has evolved, the scope and scale of network abuse have evolved in step. While unsolicited bulk email (spam) was previously the most visible form of network abuse, it is often now merely a symptom of much deeper abuse such as viruses or botnets. To reflect this changing Internet, it was proposed and agreed at RIPE 55 that the Anti-Spam Working Group widen its focus to include all relevant kinds of abuse.

It is considered difficult for this charter to include an exhaustive list of abuse types that would be considered within the scope of this working group, not least because this is expected to change over time. However an initial list can be stated and any necessary additions can be made.

• Spam via SMTP
• Spam via VoIP (SPIT)
• Spam via IM
• Webforum/blog Abuse
• All systems and mechanisms, technical and non-technical used to create, control and make money from such abuse.

It is important to note that areas such as cybersquatting or hosting illegal content are not seen to be part of the remit of the working group.

The working group would aim to tackle the issue from both the technical and non-technical angles:

• To produce and continue to update a BCP (Best Common Practice) document for ISPs similar in nature to ripe-409 but covering a wider range of possible abusive behaviours.
  
  
• To provide advice (beyond that of the BCP) to relevant parties within the RIPE region such as ISPs, Governments and Law Enforcement Agencies on strategic and operational matters.
  
  
• To discuss and disseminate information on technical and non-technical methods of preventing or reducing network abuse.

Anti-Abuse Working Group Group Mailing List

anti-abuse-wg@ripe.net is the address to use if you want to start or contribute to a discussion.

This list is open to everyone and you are welcome to subscribe if you want to participate in discussions. You can read archived discussions through the website. Comments sent by subscribers are posted immediately to the list. Relevant emails sent by non-subscribers are held for moderator approval before being posted. Unsolicited bulk email (spam) is not accepted.

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