Internet, Copyright and Digital Piracy

Abstract

The Internet is like the High seas where it connects every one like seas connect all the land. In the Internet various computers of different nation states are connected to each other through public telecommunications networks that allow transfer of data in the form of text, graphic, sound and video. In the past, it was only in the library that everyone got access to various books without breaching copyright, but with the Internet any file is a mere click away. Various sites are present that have all the files that one can need! But the catch is if it’s free it’s pirated. The development of new technology regarding the Internet has put pressure on Traditional Intellectual Property enforcement such as copyright and patent. Some IP when made available on the Internet are easily replicated. Because the cost of replicating are low and replicating is normally anonymous, copyright owners often respond with enforcing IP with rigor and aggression, there have also been many instances where the protection is demanded to be extended to newer content and newer medium of media or new medium to access those IP. This can be seen as stricter laws as passed for the enforcement of IP in various countries and additional extension into new territories for IPR. These enforcement mechanisms may not necessary work, especially on the internet which is considered a sanctuary of freedom of expression. This paper describes the role of the internet with regards to infringement of copyright of music, movies and software applications. It also summarizes various approaches that can be taken to stop infringement over the internet.