Peer-2-Peer Sharing

Music & Video Resources

File sharing is a popular Internet activity. This webpage provides information, guidelines and resources to help the Cal Lutheran community utilize and enjoy such activities efficiently and legally. File sharing is sometimes referred to as peer-to-peer (P2P) content distribution.

Warning! Do not use peer-to-peer (P2P) software to obtain or distribute licensed or copyrighted songs, movies, and/or software that you do not have the legal right to possess. It is against the law and it puts your computer at risk.

What is it?

Peer-to-peer (P2P) involves distribution of digital files over the Internet.
Because they do not rely on a central server to deliver content, P2P networks tend to be fast and reliable—they can balance traffic loads that might otherwise overwhelm servers, and they minimize the chance of service breakdown due to localized server or communication outages

What are the implications when sharing files?

Bandwith resources of comprised
P2P sharing may constitute civil and criminal violations
Could incur monetary fines
File Sharing (Source: EDUCAUSE)

Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA)(Source)

What are some RIAA activities?
- Supports and promotes the creative and financial vitality of the major music companies
- Works to protect intellectual property and First Amendment rights of artists and music labels
RIAA Explains How It Catches Music Pirates
What if I receive an RIAA notice?
RIAAs Music Notes Blog
Doing a report? Get tips from the RIAA
Visit the RIAA website for a more complete description of RIAA

Penalties (more...)

Anyone found liable for civil copyright infringement may be ordered to pay either actual damages or "statutory" damages affixed at not less than $750 and not more than $30,000 per work infringed.
Willful copyright infringement can also result in criminal penalties, including imprisonment of up to five years and fines of up to $250,000 per offense.