Actually I'm not sure, I don't know much about the spec, but I know that USB 3 has certain pairings similar to ethernet, but USB 2 doesn't have those.
If the cable he's using is shielded by ground then I think it might be up to USB 2 spec?
Edit: Interesting mini-comparison of USB 1 and USB 2 http://ww3.microtek.com.tw/tw/uploads/faq/pdf/comparison-usb...