| halfpint |
07-22-2014 03:12 PM |
UK to decriminalize file-sharing
he British government has decriminalized the act of online video game, music and film piracy, after branding harsher punishment plans as ?unworkable.?
Beginning in 2015, internet users who persistently file-share will be sent a series of warning letters explaining that their actions are illegal. However, authorities will take no further action if the user continues downloading the material.
The aim of the letters is to boost consumer awareness of the array of legitimate online media outlets such as Netflix, and deter people from using file-sharing software.
The new scheme, named the 'Voluntary Copyright Alert Programme (VCAP),' came after years of talks between internet service providers (ISPs), politicians, and the music and film industries.
Major ISPs, including BT, Virgin, and Sky, have already signed up to VCAP. Other ISPs are expected to follow suit.
Figures published by the communications watchdog Ofcom last year revealed that more than 1.5 billion files were downloaded illegally in the UK in 2012, accounting for 22 percent of all online content consumed.
According to Ofcom research, only a quarter of people would stop file-sharing if they thought they might get sued, while one in five said they would stop if they received a letter from their internet service provider.
http://rt.com/uk/174744-uk-internet-fileshare-piracy/ |
