Question about VPN and Torrents

[Frederick1000]

Hi. I hope this is the right forum for this post. If not, please let me know.

I am wondering whether my ISP can tell that I'm downloading content via a torrent client if I'm using VPN software to alter my IP address.

I am using a Mac, the torrent program Transmission and VPN software called Hotspot Shield. I got a free one-year "elite" membership for Hotspot Shield's VPN services which is why I'm using it.

Thanks.

Frederick

[Moe]

They will know you are moving large amounts of data, but they won't know what it is, and they never cared in the first place.

[Frederick1000]

Moe, thanks. Actually, I think they do care. I didn't say in my original post, but: I was using Transmission without VPN to download a show that airs on HBO. I got a letter from my ISP saying HBO saw that I was illegally downloading their show and I had to click on an agreement that confirmed I understood that downloading HBO's content is illegal. So that's why I asked my question.

[Moe]

... I got a letter from my ISP saying HBO saw that I was illegally downloading their show ...

You said it yourself. HBO saw.


All your ISP cares about is that you pay your bill on time.



All a VPN does is change what address HBO sends the letter to, if they send it at all. Many VPN operators can't or don't bother to forward the letter.

[Carjacker]

Moe, thanks. Actually, I think they do care. I didn't say in my original post, but: I was using Transmission without VPN to download a show that airs on HBO. I got a letter from my ISP saying HBO saw that I was illegally downloading their show and I had to click on an agreement that confirmed I understood that downloading HBO's content is illegal. So that's why I asked my question.

So, you know that by clicking the 'agreement' is basically admitting guilt? and that, if they (HBO) so desire, they can now come at you for 'damages' , in a legal sense. My recommendation, if you ever get a notice or claim of 'illegal' downloading, call them, tell them that you have no idea what they are talking about and 'how dare they send you letters claiming otherwise', etc., etc..
In a Politician's world, it's all about 'Plausible Deniability'. As a person of the 'Public', I suggest you learn how to use it.
Have a nice day.