would i be in any trouble?

Hey

I've posted files on the internet linking to hotfile which rewards my paypal with little bits of money.

is it possible for copyright companies to chase down me personally through either getting info from hotfile or my screen name with no extra details on forums?

 

There is not a lot of info on that site. I don't understand how it works. How do you make money from it? I did see that the terms of service you agreed to when signing up stated that the content you use must be your own.

 

Well what happens is that you can start an affiliate with hotfile that rewards you with cash via paypal depending on how much downloads the file gets through hotfile.

http://hotfile.com/affiliate.html

What happened was that, an early album has been leaked accidentally and I've posted uploaded and posted it on forums.

In Australia, MIPI (http://www.mipi.com.au/) and IFPI (http://www.ifpi.org/) are currently involved in this chase-up.

Will I be safe as an anonymous screen name posting files on forums like thousands of others, or is it possible to source out my personal details from my paypal? Or should I remove it straight away?

 

so basically you are selling links to pirated music/movies/software? do you think it is legal?

 

It's illegal of course, so you shouldn't be doing it. If they really wanted to hunt you down, then yes, they'll be able to. But I doubt they'll bother, you're just another little rat to them.

 

But companies such as hotfile, rapidshare: are they allowed to release personal information to these companies?

 

Ive deleted the files from hotfile. the extra cash isn't worth the trouble.

 

Yup, especially if/when their legal fine prints say so.

Good for you. I'm sure you'll find some better way to make money.

 

it would be interesting to know what percentage of the content of those filesharing sites (hotfile, rapidshare) is legal - my guess would be 1% or less?

 

Of course... But people will upload anything to earn extra money from people downloading it.

 

It is possible for companies to trace you yes, it may require the involvement of either the police or the courts, depending on local law.

Generally companies don't go after small fry who are only sharing their personal CD/ DVD collection via peer 2 peer networks unless they are massive. However you state that you have gone massively beyond it in both sharing a leaked album and actively promoting the illegal activity which would make you a much more viable target.

 

thanks guys, really helped me! best forum. take care!