BitTorrent hubs close after ISP raid

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A torrent is simply content ....

and the courts have correctly ruled that anyone indexing that content is just as liable as they would be had they hyperlinked that content. The fact that the content itself is spread over multiple computers is irrellevant. The reality is that when you link in any way to any content, you had better make sure it is not pirated content. On the other hand, those who link to appropriately licensed content intended for free distribution have nothing to fear. Bittorrent itself is just a tool, and like any other tool, it can be used in ways that are criminal. The problem is not the tool, the problem is the way some people are using the tool and the courts have accepted that fact and are moving forward to prosecute the pirates.

As for those who claim that this will not stop file trading I would say of course, you are right, and arresting and incarcerating bank robbers will not stop bank robberies. But both serve the same purpose, which is to instruct the general poplulace that although these crimes are committed on a regular basis, they will not be tolerated by society at large. And if you don't like the copyright law, go lobby for its reform or repeal or whatever. But until then it is the law of the land, a part of the contract that holds us all together as a nation and protects us from the anarchy that results when everyone presumes themselves a law unto themselves.

No_Ax is correct on this one. There is nowhere for these scowflaws to hide. They will not stop trying, of course, but in the process they will pay the price. There is much free content available for those who prefer free content. But if you insist on protected content, then be a person of integrity and pay the price and abide by the rules. Otherwise, be prepared to face the long arm of the law.

Posted by: George Mitchell   Posted on: 03/20/05 You are currently: a Guest | Members login | Terms of Use

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