Is Blogging About Pirated Movies Illegal?

Discussion in 'Blogging' started by charlietree, Jun 5, 2008.

  1. #1
    I have a site which links to free movie downloads on various sites across the internet. I am wondering if its illegal since im not hosting any of the content of if I should be worried about getting shut down. The link is in my sig btw
     
    charlietree, Jun 5, 2008 IP
  2. brettk

    brettk Member

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    #2
    correct me if im wrong, but i think as long as your not hosting it you can't get in trouble for it.
     
    brettk, Jun 5, 2008 IP
  3. charlietree

    charlietree Active Member

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    #3
    Dude I hope youre not wrong...it would be nice...
     
    charlietree, Jun 5, 2008 IP
  4. coldgansta

    coldgansta Guest

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    #4
    I would check with your host.
    Some hosts dont like you linking to such sites.

    There have been 3 court cases in the US where sites were forced to take down links leading to infringing material on external sites. The sites were found guilty of ‘contributory infringement’ for simply linking.

    Dont do it check this
     
    coldgansta, Jun 5, 2008 IP
  5. mizaks

    mizaks Well-Known Member

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    #5
    Have to agree with coldgansta. It is illegal.
     
    mizaks, Jun 5, 2008 IP
  6. wkhaiaun

    wkhaiaun Peon

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    #6
    As long as it is associated with something illegal, that would not be acceptable even if you are not hosting the content. It can be interpreted as promoting illegal acts. Well, that's how I think.
     
    wkhaiaun, Jun 5, 2008 IP
  7. pipes

    pipes Prominent Member

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    #7
    Even though your not hosting the files, if your still linking to it, raipidshare, megaupload things like that?
     
    pipes, Jun 5, 2008 IP
  8. unitechy

    unitechy Peon

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    #8
    Yes its illegal , providing pirated stuff is illegal
     
    unitechy, Jun 5, 2008 IP
  9. allout

    allout Prominent Member

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    #9
    No cases have been decided yet as far as the legality of the issue. There are already many sites that link to these types of movies. However, as stated before, it is the sole discretion of the host rather they will allow you to do so. They have the final say rather to shut down your site or not.

    The issue you face is how to monetize the site. Many advertisers frown on such stuff because it could reflect back on them. I am sure if you could find advertisers willing to advertise on your site it would be a very lucrative niche.

    Just be aware that with high earnings comes many risk. Though not yet ruled illegal, you could be dragged into court which will cost a small fortune in legal fees even if you win. If you can afford such problems, go for it. Otherwise, I would steer clear of the whole niche.
     
    allout, Jun 5, 2008 IP
  10. xlcho

    xlcho Guest

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    #10
    Hosting or just linking to illegal content is all the same to the law - it's illegal. Though many similar sites still exist and have no problems with the authorities, my advice is to chose another niche to develop...
     
    xlcho, Jun 5, 2008 IP
  11. charlietree

    charlietree Active Member

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    #11
    Thank you all for your answers...I have had my site for a little over 7 months now...and nothing has come up as of yet...I am wondering if they are going to do something if my site gets much bigger...
     
    charlietree, Jun 5, 2008 IP
  12. bragn

    bragn Peon

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    #12
    You aren't from the US as I see, so the best option would be consulting some local forums (or better, a local lawyer ;P) - I don't know NZ laws, sorry.. Although my guess is that putting the content on some Asian(African?) server would ensure your safety..
     
    bragn, Jun 27, 2008 IP