Napster and Fair Use

NAPSTER AND FAIR USE

IVAN HOFFMAN, B.A., J.D.

In June, 2005, the United States Supreme Court ruled that online services that promote the use of their services for infringing purposes can be held liable for copyright infringement.

The Court stated:

We hold that one who distributes a device with the object of promoting its use to infringe copyright, as shown by clear expression or other affirmative steps taken to foster infringement, is liable for the resulting acts of infringement by third parties.

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This article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. This article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article is based on United States law. You should consult with an attorney familiar with the issues and the laws of your country. This article does not create any attorney client relationship and is not a solicitation.

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