The Digital Economy Act 2010

The Digital Economy Act is a newly passed piece of British legislation that is meant to protect copyright online and increase regulation and control of the way people use the Internet.

How did it happen?

• The entertainment industry is refusing to adapt to new models, clinging to obsolete 20th Century thinking.
• The Bill was drafted by unelected officials after lobbying from the entertainment industry.
• It was passed in a hurry during the Parliamentary “wash up” process without full scrutiny.

Why should you be worried?

• Websites will be blocked for alleged copyright infringement.
• Families accused of sharing copyrighted files will be disconnected without trial. They will have to pay to appeal.
• Even if you don’t live in the UK, it sets a worrying precedent for other countries to follow suit.