BitTorrent, eDonkey and DirectConnect represent a new type of
peer-to-peer software that functions not so much by sharing files,
but by sharing the distribution of a file, so that many users can
access a film as it is being downloaded, using less bandwidth than
if each user had to stream the film separately.
These kinds of P2P networks rely on servers termed BitTorrent
"trackers", eDonkey "servers" and Direct Connect "hubs". These web
sites index digital files of all kinds, says the MPAA, and when
accessed by a user, deliver the chosen film, game or song using the
relevant software.
The MPAA is therefore targeting the operators of these servers –
as opposed to the creators of the P2P software – accusing them of
helping on-line pirates steal hundreds of millions of illegal
copies of movies and TV programs.
"The operators of these servers exercise total control over
which files are included on their servers and even determine if
some kinds of files aren't allowed," said John Malcolm, the MPAA's
Senior Vice President and Director of Worldwide Anti-Piracy
Operations.
"For instance, some operators won't post pornography on their
systems, but they have no compunction allowing illegal files of
copyrighted movies and TV shows to flow through their servers. We
are moving to stop that. The message today is clear: if you
illegally trade movies on-line, we can find you and we will hold
you accountable," he added.
The MPAA has filed suit against over 100 BitTorrent operators in
the US and UK, and local authorities have already taken action
against server operators in France, The Netherlands and
Finland.
The MPAA and various national rights-holder groups are also in
the process of sending cease-and-desist letters to ISPs throughout
the world that host eDonkey servers and DirectConnect hubs.
Neither BitTorrent, eDonkey nor DirectConnect had any comment on
the suits.
The latest move comes almost a month after the MPAA took legal
action against over 200 individuals who had illegally traded
digital copies of films over the internet. Those suits seek damages
and an injunction against further file-sharing.
