Filesharers in Hong Kong have been sent a warning about their activities after the first arrest for sharing copyrighted files. Authorities there have arrested a 38-year-old man for allegedly sharing copyrighted material over the internet using BitTorrent.
Customs and Excise Department spokeswoman Agnes Law said the man, who hasn"t been identified, was suspected of uploading the films "Daredevil," "Red Planet" and "Miss Congeniality". He hasn"t been immediately charged with offences, but investigations are continuing.
Hong Kong has tough anti-piracy laws, with illegal distribution of copyrighted material carrying a maximum penalty of a four-year prison sentence as well as a fine of $6,400 for every illegal copy that has been distributed. The country, however, is known for its market in fake luxury goods and illegally-copied music and films. Officials had previously promised to step up their actions in tackling the problem.