Innovation Asset Blog

ISPs take note of copyright, property violations

Major American internet service providers are likely to bolster their efforts against illegal file-sharing and piracy after lengthy negotiations with entertainment companies holding copyrights on songs, movies and other media, technology news provider CNET recently reported.

While no agreement has been finalized, the plan would force major ISPs, such as Comcast, AT&T and Verizon, to punish potential violators with decreased bandwidth access, among other penalties. CNET reported that the ISPs and those holding the copyrights would be tasked with funding and overseeing any potential agreement.

Opponents to the proposal are concerned with the constitutionality of such an agreement. Should ISPs act solely on the complaints of copyright holders in throttling down bandwidth access of the accused, opponents contend that they may be in violation of due process, according to CNET. The White House has stepped into the fray as well, as part of the federal government's goal to encourage economic development by protecting intellectual property.

A similar effort failed in December of 2008 when the Recording Industry Association of America announced a plan to work with ISPs to target copyright violators. The effort included warning notices sent to violators. Those who failed to comply with the warnings saw their internet access suspended by their ISP.

Peter Ackerman

Peter Ackerman

Founder & CEO, Innovation Asset Group, Inc.