19.03.2014
The website ‚Popcorn Time‘ is well-known amongst film buffs. However, warnings have been issued against using the supposed streaming website. In reality, the website is a file sharing platform which means users could receive costly copyright infringement notices.
Popcorn Time
The website, ‚Popcorn Time‘, has received positive reviews in the media for its easy-to-use format. However, users should be aware that the supposed streaming website is in fact a platform that allows the exchange of pirated content.
File sharing vs streaming
While it is currently disputed in Germany as to whether streaming users violate copyright law, file sharing is without doubt illegal.
In the case of Popcorn Time, users download copyright-protected works via Bittorrent. In addition, users’ computers are utilised to distribute files and therefore make pirated works illegally available to the public. In such a case, users violate German copyright through file sharing.
Warning
Although the website provides insufficient information to users about this fact, ignorance is no defence, and users of Popcorn Time remain vulnerable to receiving copyright infringement notices containing demands for high compensation and legal costs.
Christian Solmecke
Christian Solmecke
Christian Solmecke ist Partner der Kanzlei WILDE BEUGER SOLMECKE und inbesondere in den Bereichen des IT-, des Medien- und des Internetrechts tätig. Darüber hinaus ist er Autor zahlreicher juristischer Fachveröffentlichungen in diesen Bereichen.
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