Thursday, February 16, 2006

You Can't Copy That!

That backup copy of your CDs (or those MP3s on your MP3 player)... well... if the content industry (RIAA, labels, etc.) had their way, you probably would have to buy a new copy for each device you wanted to use or buy a replacement copy instead of keeping your own backup copy...

The [submitted arguments in favor of granting exemptions to the DMCA] provide no arguments or legal authority that making back up copies of CDs is a noninfringing use. In addition, the submissions provide no evidence that access controls are currently preventing them from making back up copies of CDs or that they are likely to do so in the future. Myriad online downloading services are available and offer varying types of digital rights management alternatives. For example, the Apple FairPlay technology allows users to make a limited number of copies for personal use. Presumably, consumers concerned with the ability to make back up copies would choose to purchase music from a service that allowed such copying. Even if CDs do become damaged, replacements are readily available at affordable prices.

No comments: