Looking to crackdown on illegal file-sharers using using mass infringement notifications.
Hustler Europe, the world’s largest adult entertainment group, has decided it’s had enough with the illegal sharing of its copyrighted content so it’s decided to hire anti-piracy company Media Protector to monitor P2P networks and services
Media Protector specializes in mass notifications that seek out-of-court settlements.
What’s interesting is that it even advertises the harassment of porn fans as an exciting “new revenue stream” that Hustler Europe can “enjoy.”
“Those adult content producers who have garnered a reputation for actively protecting their content have witnessed a corresponding decrease in illegal downloads. This will subsequently lead to an increase of their retail numbers,” said Media Protector founder and Managing Director Rainer Strassmeir. “Plus, they have enjoyed a new revenue stream by effectively monetizing copyright infringements.”
Hustler Europe said it was a tad weary of turning copyright infringement into a revenue stream so it made sure that it found a “respectful” anti-piracy company.
“Initially, it may seem like an awkward arrangement and a bit unusual to turn infringements into a consistent revenue stream,” said Helen Clyne, managing director for Hustler Europe. “It was therefore important for us to find a partner who monitors IP data respectfully, professionally and reliably and who is able to work with competent legal counsel in various countries and legal systems to achieve optimal results.”
But, what does “respect” have to do with ensuring the reliability of the accusations Media Protector makes? An IP address alone is little more than a fleeting location identifier. It doesn’t prove who or if there was a user at the other end.
Remember the elderly UK couple accused of illegally downloading German Porn? It was Media Protector that was responsible for the charges.
“We were offended by the title of the film,” they told Guardian Money. “We don’t do porn – straight or gay – and we can’t do downloads. We have to ask our son even to do an iTunes purchase.”
So much for Hustler Europe finding someone who’s “respectful” and “reliable.”
Mass accusations are never any of these.
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