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How To Frame a Printer For Copyright Infringement
An anonymous reader writes "Have you ever wondered what it takes to get 'caught' for copyright infringement on the Internet? Surprisingly, actual infringement is not required. The New York Times reports that researchers from the computer science department at the University of Washington have just released a study that examines how enforcement agencies monitor P2P networks and what it takes to receive a complaint today. Without downloading or sharing a single file, their study attracted more than 400 copyright infringement complaints. Even more disturbing is their discovery that illegal P2P participation can be easily spoofed; the researchers managed to frame innocent desktop machines and even several university printers, all of which received bogus complaints."
So, will we have a variant on the Chewbacca defense?
... if the toner cartridge won't fit, you must acquit."
:-P
"Why would a printer, an inanimate object with no reproductive organs, be downloading pornography? It doesn't fit
Seriously though, it's good to see some credible research demonstrating that the methods that are used to identify file-sharers are completely arbitrary and can't be demonstrated to be valid.
It would be nice to finally have enough evidence that Judges could basically say "Well, this methodology has been dis-credited, you need actual evidence."
Now, if you excuse me, I'm going to try to devise a way to make it look like our printer has been downloading Will Farrel movies and films with Natalie Portman.
Cheers
Lost at C:>. Found at C.
Time to exact my revenge on that stupid Lexmark E240 of the 5th floor.
Power corrupts. Absolute power...is even more fun.
Nobody expects the Spanish Inquisition!
PC Load Music?
WTF does that mean?
I don't see how what you wear while speculating is relevant.
Clippy: Looks like you're making a letter. Would you like help?
Clippy: Looks like your letter is finished. Would you like me to print it?
Clippy: Looks like you're infringing on a copyright. Would you like me to call you a lawyer?
* Throws computer out window *
I'm a spanish Inquisitor, you insensitive clod!
GAAH! MY PRINTER IS ON FIRE!!! PUT IT OUT! PUT IT OUT!
This is completely ridiculous and I'm sure any judge would see a printer downloading copyrighted songs as completely silly.
So, anyone wanna help me get NetBSD on my Epson?
I'm not sure, but I hear the PBX is looking to consolidate things into a Class Action.
This space for rent. All reasonable inquiries will be entertained at proprietors discretion.
Ha HAH! The Spanish Inquisition never expected a Hewlett Packard !
"You are accused of heresy, in thought, word and deed! How do you plead?"
PC LOAD LETTER
PC Load letter, what the fuck does that mean?!