Bit torrent copyright threat?

Question

I read on wikipedia about the threats to the copyright of the copyrighted materials and getting punished the person or organisation who distribute these files on the net. I want to know that if I am downloading ( not uploading) something from the swarm, could I be punished in some way?

Answer 1

whether you're uploading OR downloading copyrighted material you're breaking the law - the nature of bittorrent means you're both downloading AND uploading at the same time.

even if you set your upload rate to 0k/s your ip address will still be listed as a peer for that torrent so it makes no difference whether you are or aren't uploading.

because bittorrent is so popular and because everyone's ip address is on display all the time they're downloading/uploading it's a major target by the MPAA who log those addresses and (sometimes) take action against people violating their copyright.

Answer 2

it you download or upload copyrighted without paying the copyright owner you are violating federal law. If you are downloading music via a P2P network 98% of the music is in violation.

The FCC has been getting tougher on punishment because of RIAA legal pressure.

I don't use P2P for a variety of reason, I can get most music via Yahoo music and I don't watch movies.

P2P is a source of spyware, malware and virii. Bitorrent is a good payload mechanism so thiefs can get in and steal from you.

Think about it. Downloading music or movies you've not paid for is no different then going into a video/record store and stuffing your pockets..

Answer 3

Yes! uploading or downloading with out written consent of the artist is copy rite infringement, Minimum fine $10,000 us dollars, or 1 yr in jail! they find you through your IP...

Answer 4

yes you an be punished.