What is the law on downloading TV shows?

Clipsey · 7 Nov 2007 at 20:52

Yes yes we all know it's illegal and all goes on but was just wondering if anyone knew the exact law and if so provide some sources>?
I've looked at the Digital Millennium Copyright Act but appears a bit :confused:

Also what with it being the World Wide Web the argument is that you have to abide by the laws in the country you reside in?

Thanks

Clipsey · 7 Nov 2007 at 21:02

Guys, just to clarify I know it's illegal etc but I am writing a paper on it and would like some views/sources.
That's one of my arguments about the whole Sky+/Tivo - if you can record it for free and its broadcast for free - I believe its out there in the public domain. As long as we do not re-distribute it then it should be allowed (however I do see the problem of bit-torrent, which you are helping re-distribute it to other people?)

Clipsey · 7 Nov 2007 at 22:23

His interpretation of UK laws is that downloading is, bizzarly, legal however the act of filesharing isn't.

Thats probably due to the fact that downloading material for your own personal use is ok but re-distributing it is against the law. Whether this be through selling it on, burning it or simply the act of file sharing where in essence you are helping re-distribute the copy right material.
What happens if we set the upload ratio to 0.0 - is it then ok to use P2P

Clipsey · 7 Nov 2007 at 23:22

True and I agree. However I think the laws need updating and networks need to get up to date with technology. Why are they always the last ones to embrace them?
'time shift' occurs to re-watch that broadcast from a Tivo/Sky+ (this is in essence illegal according to laws but the use of VHS/Sky+ technology or whatever has been regarded as legal)
What happens if you miss your favourite episode mid-season, Sky+ did not work? I just think the networks need to update themselves.