Copyright Act 2011

What is File Sharing?

File sharing is when you download or upload content using an application or network that enables simultaneous sharing of files (such as video or music) between multiple users. File sharing itself is not illegal, but only unauthorized files via file sharing application infringe the copyright act. So, this law should make no changes to how you use your internet connection. When you upload or download files (e.g. music, film or book) to and from the internet using a file sharing application you will need to make sure that you, or anybody else using your internet service, are not infringing on the copyright of others. If the infringement happens, you may receive infringement notice.

Three-notice rule

The three-notice regime requires Internet Service Providers (as internet protocol address providers, IPAPs) like WorldNet to send notices to our customers informing them that they may have infringed copyright via file sharing.

Upon receiving evidence of copyright infringement from a copyright owner(s) or its agent, WorldNet will be required to match that evidence to the relevant our account holder. WorldNet may then send up to three infringement notices. Our customers will have the opportunity to challenge for these notices.

Summary of the Process of the new Copyright Act

1. Infringement is detected by the Copyright owner or its agent based on the IP address.
2. Copyright owner / Agent will notice to ISP of the IP address
3. ISP, WorldNet, will send the notice to our customer
4. Three-notice rule is started.
   • [Step1] Detection Notice
   • [Step2] Warning Notice
   • [Step3] Enforcement Notice
5. If the three-notice rule has been processed and there has been no resolution/challenge, then Copyright owners can take a claim to the Copyright Tribunal.

Challenge a Notice

Our account holder, who received a notice, does not agree with the alleged infringement, our customer have 14 days to challenge a notification using challenge form which is attached to the notification. Once WorldNet receives a valid challenge from the customer, it will be then passed on to the Copyright owner. WorldNet will also inform our customer a response of the Copyright owner.

More Information

You can find more information about this Act and what to do when you receive a notice at Ministry of Economic Development website.