Aside from potentially being sued for millions, what is another risk to downloading music and movies online illegally? Losing your internet access altogether! UK residents who are repeatedly caught downloading copyrighted content illegally could have their web connection cut off, under proposed laws unveiled by the British government today.
Despite criticism from civil rights groups and internet service providers, Britain may join France, who established a similar law this past May, as soon as 2011. Both countries would be defying a European Union ruling that prevents countries from cutting off internet access without first going to the courts (the ruling is still pending a final stamp of approval from the European Council.)
Treasury Minister Stephen Timms felt that previous plans merely restricting users' broadband speed, did not go far enough in cracking down on online piracy. The potential punishment is accompanied by the possibility of blocking offenders' access to download sites. The law wouldn't be finalized by Parliament until November.
Because of the harsh criticism the music industry has faced for targeting individual users, these proposals also put pressure on the internet service providers that host file-swapping sites, urging them to catch and take action against offenders. These networks claim they have no way of knowing if piracy occurs on their networks.
This British proposal would require the providers issue written warnings to users whose IP addresses are spotted on a site that offers illegal media swapping and/or downloading. These documented warnings would assist copyright holders in persecuting repeat offenders in a lawsuit.
- "Internet provider TalkTalk said it would "strongly resist" government attempts to oblige internet service providers to act as Internet police. TalkTalk said disconnecting alleged offenders "will be futile given that it is relatively easy for determined filesharers to mask their identity or their activity to avoid detection."
The Open Rights Group, which protects civil liberties in the area of digital technology, said any suspension would "restrict people's fundamental right to freedom of expression."
But the British Phonographic Industry, which represents the recorded music industry, said the move was "a step forward that should help the legal digital market to grow for consumers."
We'll close with a statistic from The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry - an estimated 95% of music downloads are unauthorized. This translates to billions of dollars being lost to music piracy.
That being said....
via AP
