What do I do if my younger sister downloaded a movie onto my computer and now I’m being accused of copyright infringement?
Get Legal Help Today
Compare Quotes From Top Companies and Save
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
What do I do if my younger sister downloaded a movie onto my computer and now I’m being accused of copyright infringement?
I received some papers in the mail about copyright infringement. My sister, who was 13 at the time, downloaded the movie over a year ago. As soon as I found the file, I deleted it. I did not share the movie or host it. My name is on the internet bill so I’m guessing that’s why I am being held responsible. I wrote a letter explaining the situation but I didn’t send it in, fearing that it wasn’t a good idea until I got some advice. What should I do? I feel like I should not be penalized for my sister’s mistake.
Asked on May 15, 2011 under Business Law, Maryland
Answers:
M.S., Member, Connecticut Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
The first question here is WHO is accusing you of copyright infringement? To be honest, it sounds like you are a victim of a scam. While possible, it is unlikely that the movie studios are going to hire an attorney to go after individuals who have downloaded, and deleted, ONE movie. Theres just not enough money in it for them for that kind of legal action to be worth it. Rather, it is possible that someone is scamming people into paying money to settle false claims. This sounds like the more likely of the two scenarios. In any event, I first suggest that you research whether the person/entity making the accusation is legitimate before deciding what, if any, action you need to take. Good luck.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: The Answer(s) provided above are for general information only. The attorney providing the answer was not serving as the attorney for the person submitting the question or in any attorney-client relationship with such person. Laws may vary from state to state, and sometimes change. Tiny variations in the facts, or a fact not set forth in a question, often can change a legal outcome or an attorney's conclusion. Although AttorneyPages.com has verified the attorney was admitted to practice law in at least one jurisdiction, he or she may not be authorized to practice law in the jurisdiction referred to in the question, nor is he or she necessarily experienced in the area of the law involved. Unlike the information in the Answer(s) above, upon which you should NOT rely, for personal advice you can rely upon we suggest you retain an attorney to represent you.