File Swapping
Downloading copyrighted content from the Internet, a practice known as "file swapping," is one of the biggest issues in Internet usage. Because thousands of people can access a file, downloading music or films has a huge financial impact on the artist and copyright owner.
Why is file swapping illegal?
File swapping violates copyright laws.
Can I be sued for file swapping?
Yes. Owners of the copyrighted songs and movies are filing lawsuits against individuals who download copyrighted material.
SIDEBAR: Currently, members of the Recording Industry Association of America, the main trade organization for music companies and artists, have filed several lawsuits against college students and others, requesting $150,000 in damages per song downloaded.
Are parents responsible if their child illegally swaps music files on the family computer?
Parents are responsible for their child's "bad behavior" only to a limited extent, and these limits would apply to a file swapping suit. Typically, state laws put a maximum on the amount of money parents must pay to compensate the injured party. The "cap" can be as little as $2,500.
Can I go to jail for swapping music files?
Yes. If you are convicted of a copyright offense, you are in violation of the Electronic Theft Act, which permits offenders to be sentenced to jail.
© Copyright, Maxine Binns and DirectLaw, Inc., 2012
Nautilus House
82 South Shore Road
Warwick WK 08
Bermuda
You must be a resident of, or authorized to do business in, Bermuda in order to use the legal services offered by this web site.
Disclaimer: This Law Guides within this web site are for educational purposes only. For specific legal advice that applies to your individual situation, you must be a client of our law firm.
Purchase legal advice for a fixed price by phone or email
