Linking to infringing content is illegal

**mrsolutions** · 02-07-2007, 01:02 PM

Linking to infringing content is illegal:

Search Google for: illegal linking infringing

That means if your blog links to an illegal copy of a TV show, and you know its illegal you can get sued.

If you didn't realize and linked in good faith you are proected by Safe Harbor laws (in the US) but must take it down when requested.

Its a stupid law - but that's how it is at the moment.

**Erik** · 02-11-2007, 06:07 PM

Although this is a law, this is a very ignored law.. My friend ran a TV show linking sites for a good 5 years without a complaint or lawsuit. It doesn't start to effect you until you are at a commonly known level, such as Youtube. Te internet is just too big to completely monitor.

**dashed** · 04-21-2007, 05:28 PM

So you can be sued for linking to a megaupload site not uploaded by you?

**mrsolutions** · 04-22-2007, 10:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Erik Sandfort

Although this is a law, this is a very ignored law.. My friend ran a TV show linking sites for a good 5 years without a complaint or lawsuit. It doesn't start to effect you until you are at a commonly known level, such as Youtube. Te internet is just too big to completely monitor.

They're actually getting very quick sending out the Cease and Decist letters these days.

**mrsolutions** · 04-22-2007, 10:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dashed

So you can be sued for linking to a megaupload site not uploaded by you?

Yes if you directly link to infringing content and refuse to take the link down after being asked. That's the current situation with US law.

**dashed** · 04-23-2007, 11:53 PM

What about Canadian?

**mrsolutions** · 04-24-2007, 05:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dashed

What about Canadian?

The same I imagine, although I can't recall any past cases.

Its places like Russia, China, Malaysia etc where it is currently legal.

some articles:
Linking to infringing content is probably illegal in the US » Web TV Wire
Legal aspects of search engines, hyperlinks (surface & deep), inline links & frames
Is Linking To Pirated Content A Liability? | WebProNews
Technology News: Legal: Sides Line Up in Google-Perfect 10 Fight

**Netstorm** · 05-07-2007, 04:07 AM

This is only a scare tactic. They won't go after you unless you are hosting it, and even if they do I am pretty sure they have to send a cease and desist letter which means you must remove it within 10 days or so.

I am not saying it is fine to do, but rather it's rare people get busted for that.