[muglo] Re: New copyright legislation

  • From: Wayne Dobson <pwdobson@xxxxxxxxxx>
  • To: muglo@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
  • Date: Thu, 3 Jun 2010 18:56:52 -0400

Perhaps there has not been enough time to digest this new legislation, but I'm surprised by the lack of concern. From what I gather: Your ISP is now required to keep logs of your downloads and turn these records over to authorities when requested. Any 'ripping' software you might have on your computer must be deleted. If you buy a DVD, you may own one copy of it, but you are not legally entitled to make that copy. If you buy a DVD in Europe, you might as well throw it out as you cannot convert it for North American use. If you use a Time Machine drive, that is your one copy of your iTunes library allowed. Any other backup is illegal.

WHAT'S ILLEGAL:

* Breaking digital locks: Perhaps the most important element of the new bill is that it would make it illegal to break a digital lock. In other words, you could no longer download a program to get a DVD bought in Europe to work in Canada. Individuals also could not create, import or sell devices or software that breaks digital locks. The penalty for individuals would range from $100 to $5,000.

* Enabling copyright infringement: This will help target pirating sites. It would oblige Internet service providers to notify individuals, and keep repeat offenders' personal data on file, when they're detected to be illegally downloading. (Big Brother is watching you!)

* Having more than one backup copy of a song or movie: You can back up a copy of a legally acquired song, but can't have more than one copy. It could therefore be illegal to copy a series of songs onto a USB key and share them with a friend. The possible penalty is $100 to $5,000.


Wayne Dobson
pwdobson@xxxxxxxxxx
(519) 474-1253 res.
(519) 860-2725 cell

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