I am very concerned about the changes proposed to Section 92a and c of the Copyright Amendment Act in that, although it has a well intended purpose, it completely undermines a basic human right to be innocence until proven guilty.
The changes will force ISP’s to remove services from anyone suspected of breaking copyright law, without evidence and without trial.
The change proposed will do nothing to prevent piracy as offenders may join another ISP, use fake details or move residence to continue offending. They can also continue to download copyright material, completely undetected, through using secure encrypted connections (VPN, etc). Disallowing Internet access will also penalise innocent parties (other members of a household) that may not have been aware of the offenders’ actions.
The Internet is more and more becoming an essential service and I see this as paramount to legislating that power companies monitor electricity usage, investigate abnormalities and cut off services to those who they suspect may be running a p lab or hydroponic operation; Councils cutting off water to a household because they suspect they are watering some weed; Banks closing accounts because of something suspicious (without police involvement).
NZ already has a system established that deals with those that break the law, it is called the Police and court system. I believe this legislation has been purposely written to prevent copyright infringement coming through the courts. Maybe to save a few $$$ in admin and legal costs, but at what cost to our rights? Is this China?
I also fear the ISP’s will pass the cost of providing this ‘policing’ onto customers at a time when New Zealand needs to reduce it’s broadband charges.
I agree something needs to be done in regards to piracy. BUT THIS IS NOT IT!
-KENT