One element of the PROTECT IP Act that may have widespread effects on the casual web user is the targeting of web developers who include links to pirated material on the web, according to an Epoch Times report.

Any web user who clicks on these links could be in trouble as well, the news provider reported. Major websites, such as Google, Yahoo and YouTube, will likely implement more aggressive tactics in weeding out and blacklisting any site or user that violates copyright law in linking to protected material.

While most experts support the idea of improving copyright enforcement to protect business profit and growth, some opponents of PROTECT IP have emerged. The news provider notes that advocates of global internet freedom rights believe PROTECT IP represents an infringement. Still, the internet has led to a Wild West of sorts for certain industries, and many believe implementing additional protection is critical to future success.

PROTECT IP is a revised version of the Combating Online Infringement and Counterfeits Act, which Vermont Senator Patrick Leahy penned in September 2010. Opponents of the bill in Congress believed it was too broad, prompting its revision as PROTECT IP.