Japanese internet service providers are going to be serious about illegal file sharing this time by cutting off the internet connection of users found to repeatedly use Winny and other file-sharing programs to download gaming software and music.

This is an effort by all four of Japan’s internet providers and they’ll be working with copyright organizations including the Japanese Society for Rights of Authors, Composers and Publishers and the Association of Copyright for Computer Software.

The number of users of file-sharing software such as Winny in the country is estimated to be about 1.75 million, with most of the files exchanged using the software believed to be illegal copies.

A similar plan was tried by a major internet provider two years ago when the company tried to disconnect users from the Internet whenever the company detected the use of Winny or other file-sharing software. However, they were issued a warning from the Internal Affairs and Communications Ministry whom believe such an approach was might violate the privacy rights.

This time round, the copyright organizations would be doing the hunting, using special detection software. Then they will notify the ISPs who will in turn take action against the users based on the IP addresses.

Source: Yomuri News

Looks like Japan is really serious about this crackdown on illegal downloads and file sharing.

I’m just wondering why is it that such technology are only used against cheapskates who wouldn’t spend their money on buying originals but we don’t see the government using similar technology to deal with bad people that download kiddy porn or scammers.

I just think that regardless of the steps taken to stop illegal downloads, people will always find alternative routes to get around them.