my feeling is that leech systems shouldn't be automated but should be under the exclusive control of the host, as he or she's the one who's harmed. if the host doesn't mind, then the upload continues. if the host has a problem with the leech then the upload can be stopped. two things are helpful for this; one is an easy way to manually browse files plus the u/loaders' nick should be followed by an "amount of shared files number", say "jackspratts@grokster5264" and the other is an easy way to manually stop uploads that also blocks the uploader from reaquiring any file from the host during the session. the protocol should be reviewed regularly, tested against hackers and changed when needed. automated systems sound good in theory but in practice are usually flawed and abused, as noted.
automated leech controls, like other forms of social control, may end up harming honest people more than they do dishonest ones i fear.
the kazaa control is already getting a reputation as leech friendly for this reason. when it harms honest users to any large degree it offers them yet another reason to migrate to a different client. no one likes being a sucker.
- js.
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