Lowman+J+blog+post+analysis

Lowman J

TO: Proximity music team FROM: Jed Lowman SUBJECT: cnet news article on Verizon’s illegal download policy DATE: February 2, 2010 We were asked to analyze a blog post or news item to help us prepare questions for Proximity's spring focus groups. Below is my summary of a // cnet news // article which focuses on the efforts of Verizon, and other internet service providers, to discourage the downloading of copyrighted materials by its users. I suggest we include questions for the spring focus groups to determine whether TU students are aware of Verizon’s practices or to determine if students have ever personally received correspondence from Verizon regarding possible illegal downloads. In December, 2008 the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) announced that it would no longer file suit against individuals suspected of illegally sharing or illegally downloading copyrighted material. Instead the RIAA would rely on agreements that it established with internet service providers. Verizon, one of the nation’s largest internet service providers, would be counted on to lead the way in preventing illegal downloads. Verizon takes a relatively soft approach to suspected copyright infringers. Most of Verizon’s actions revolve around written warnings to its customers that escalate in tone if the suspected abuse continues. Verizon acknowledges that only a small number of customers have had their service disconnected as a result of suspected copyright infringement. Verizon’s policy raises important questions regarding both the responsibility of internet service providers and the responsibility of their customers. · Should an internet service provider take ultimate responsibility for the actions of its customers? · Why did the RIAA cease prosecution of suspected copyright infringers and pass responsibility to an entity that operates outside of the music industry? · Are an initial written warning and subsequent “more strongly worded warnings” strong enough of a deterrent to dissuade users who download copyrighted material or, as the article suggests, will users simply take measures to disguise their IP addresses or simply change internet service providers? · Have you or anyone you know ever received a letter from an internet service provider addressing possible illegal downloads and the consequences of continued abuses? · If so, did the receiver alter his/her behavior as a result of Verizon’s correspondence? · Does the possibility of having your internet service interrupted serve as a deterrent for not downloading copyright protected material?  Carnoy, David. (2010, January 20) Verizon ends service of alleged illegal downloaders. //cnet news//. Retrieved Feb. 5, 2010 from http://news.cnet.com/8301-1023_3-10437176-93.html. 
 * What is Verizon’s policy regarding downloading of copyrighted material? **
 * Importance of Verizon’s policy: **
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Questions to ask TU Students **
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">References: **