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.

File Sharing (Source: EDUCAUSE)

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

Resources

Alternatives
 Some examples include:

Access a more complete list with links to numerous resources

Plus more

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.

Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) (Source)

More Resources

Other
Want to Find Out More?

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Help Desk at:

Phone: (805) 493-3698
Email: helpdesk@callutheran.edu

Feedback Form