ORG Criticizes Ofcom File Sharing Draft Code

Advocacy group, ORG, is demanding a rewrite of the Ofcom draft code designed to cut down on illegal file sharing in the UK. The internet freedom organization is concerned that the draft code is too vague about the standards of evidence required when action is taken against individuals over alleged illegal file sharing.

The Open Rights Group says that people could receive court summons based on insubstantial evidence from the internet service providers. Recent embarrassing US court cases where the music industry has sued children and the elderly over alleged file sharing have highlighted the problems of creating a chain of evidence linking the suspect to the offence.

In the UK, there has already been a flurry of letters sent out by lawyers acting for the Ministry of Sound and many recipients have expressed anger and confusion at being accused of illegal file sharing.

Jim Killock, executive director of ORG, has pointed out that the draft code written by Ofcom does not specify the standard of evidence required, or the means of obtaining such evidence, and he is calling for a fresh consultation about a new code—preferably one that is compliant with the much criticized Digital Economy Act.

ORG Criticizes Ofcom File Sharing Draft Code

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