Slashdot Mirror

← Back to Stories (view on slashdot.org)

MPAA Sets Up Fake Site to Catch Pirates

Posted by samzenpus on from the be-sure-to-include-your-social-security-number dept.

thefickler writes "Media Defender, a company which does the dirty work for the MPAA, has been caught setting up 'dummy' websites in an attempt to catch those who download copyrighted videos. The site, MiiVi.com, complete with a user registration, forum, and "family filter", offered complete downloads of movies and "fast and easy video downloading all in one great site." But that's not all; MiiVi also offered client software to speed up the downloading process. The only catch is, after it was installed, it searched your computer for other copyrighted files and reported back."

1 of 617 comments (clear)

  1. Not to state the obvious, but . . . by PIPBoy3000 · · Score: 5, Informative
    The only catch is, after it was installed, it searched your computer for other copyrighted files and reported back.

    Doesn't this violate various anti-spyware laws? For example, here's Illinois' law:

    Creates the Consumer Protection Against Computer Spyware Act. Sets forth provisions for unauthorized collection or culling of personally identifiable information, unauthorized access to or modifications of computer settings and computer damage, unauthorized interference with installation or disabling computer software, and other prohibited conduct. Provides that certain persons may bring a civil action against a violator of the Act. Exempts willful and wanton misconduct from the limitation on liability.