Protesters gather to oppose file-sharing bill

A protest rally against the controversial Copyright (Infringing File Sharing) Amendment Bill has failed to deliver, with just three days left until the bill becomes law.

The bill, nicknamed the ‘Skynet’ bill by its opposition, makes it possible for copyright holders who suspect internet users of infringements to ask ISPs to send notices warning the users to desist. After three of these notices have been sent, the copyright holder can take their claim to the Copyright Tribunal, where infringers can be liable for up to $15,000.

The bill’s opponents say it will make ordinary New Zealanders liable for prosecution, while the upper end of the file sharing community will use technology to circumvent it.

However, while over 3000 people registered for the event on Facebook, reports say attendance was between 60 and 200. Go here to see the images and judge for yourself.