U.K. to implement infringement warning system

It has been discussed previously on this blog that the Internet has made it easy for users to commit acts of infringement. The illegal downloading of music, movies, software and other works of intellectual property has continued to be a persistent problem for many companies in these industries over the years. 

But this issue is not limited to the United States. Although the U.S. already has the Copyright Alert System, other countries experience intellectual property issues. While some instances of infringement are accidental, others may be committed intentionally. As such, the United Kingdom plans to implement a program that will help alert consumers of when they might be committing an act of infringement online.

According to an article in Billboard, the system is intended to make consumers aware of possible infringement by sending a warning from Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to users that are believed to be engaging in "unlawful file sharing."

The warning system is an effort between ISPs and U.K. creative industries rights holders, according to a press release. One of the goals of the program is to educate consumers of the harm that takes place when intellectual property is stolen, but law enforcement will not be involved. 

The implementation of this program underscores the need for businesses to safeguard works from the possibility of infringement. When assets are stolen on a mass scale, it can result in significant losses for the owner of the work. 

Creative industries are not the only ones affected by copyright infringement. Any business with a unique invention or idea should take the necessary steps to legally protect their valuable assets. Small businesses in the Phoenix, AZ area can contact a small business attorney to learn more.

Categorised in: Intellectual Property Law

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