Governments around the world are looking at ways that they can reduce illegal downloads of copyright materials. It is estimated that in most developed countries approximately 75% of all music downloads are illegal, normally using Peer-to-Peer methods. Many consumers, when interviewed, do not see that the practice is harming anyone, and cannot recognise the problem. Of course, those artists producing the music regard it somewhat differently, as do the large music publishers.
The UK is in the process of attempting to force Internet Service Providers (ISPs), under a code of practice, firstly to warn customers that they are breaking the law when illegally downloading, and then to block their internet connection if the breach continues. The ISPs are required to collect details of customers who unlawfully download films, music and TV and then to write to them about the infringement. Any internet user who receives three letters in the space of 12 months faces having their personal details handed over to the owner of the copyrighted material so they can be sued.
