Re: Today on fines for using filesharing "websites"

> The Today programme reported (at about 8:40) that the BPI is fining
> filesharers. It ended by saying that many parents can't even set the VCR,
> "but that's not a criminal offence." I wonder which isn't a criminal
> offence, video ignorance or filesharing. Filesharing isn't a criminal
> offence yet, is it?

Did Today really say that "the BPI is fining file sharers"? If so, that was 
very poor reporting, as the BPI has no authority to fine anyone. What they do 
have is the ability to report violations of the criminal law to the police, 
which I believe includes selling counterfeit goods, and the ability to take 
individuals to a civil court and demand damages and restraining orders. Only 
the courts have the power to levy fines.


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