Software blocks 'unwanted' music files and "unwanted" file-swapping applications

ElectricNews.net
Sep. 23, 2005

The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), which represents the recording industry worldwide, has teamed up with the Motion Picture Association to offer file-swappers Digital File Check. It's what the entertainment industry has been waiting for -- a programme that not only wipes file-sharing software from your PC but also blocks "unwanted" file-swapping applications from being installed. DFC will also allow users to delete copyrighted music and video files from the PC's shared folders.

DFC is being touted as an educational tool that will help steer inexperienced internet users away from the murky world of file-sharing towards the legal routes of obtaining digital music and film. It also claims that the application will keep children from infringing copyright by swapping music and video files

"This is a timely initiative: it comes after months of warning and information campaigns making it clear that file-swapping copyrighted music is illegal and could involve fines and prosecutions. And it comes at a time when downloading music legally has never been easier, with over 350 sites offering over a million tracks," said John Kennedy, chairman and chief executive of IFPI.

However, the IFPI is attempting to allay any fears of Big Brother watching PC users' every move; according to the organisation, the software doesn't not alert the anti-piracy organisations if illegal activity has taken place.

DFC will be available online and on CD over the coming months in a number of countries including Denmark, Finland, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Sweden and the UK.

This is the latest tool in the fight against internet piracy, which has been blamed for falling music sales worldwide. Various music industry groups have taken action against file swappers throughout the world, with more than 14,000 legal actions against alleged illegal uploaders in 12 countries according to the IFPI.

Ireland has not escaped action. The Irish Recorded Music Association (IRMA) said earlier this year that it would take legal action against people in Ireland accused of illegally sharing music files. File sharing is also being blamed for declining music sales in Ireland, and IRMA said it decided to take the action after 15 months of warnings.

In separate news, the International Chamber of Commerce, IFPI, MPA and the International Video Federation (IVF) are publishing a new guide for employers to help them understand their legal obligations regarding copyright infringement and their networks.

Companies in Denmark, Finland, Germany, Italy, Spain, Czech Republic, Sweden and Thailand will receive the guide, " Copyright and Security Guide for Companies and Governments" initially. The guide will provide organisations with simple advice on how they can identify and avoid copyright theft on their systems.