French Internet Authority (HADOPI) has issued a new report
examining ways to stop usage of streaming and direct download
sites.
The report suggests that in order to stop illegal downloading of
copyrighted material, blocking web sites or even seizuring domains
should be among the available legal options.
HADOPPI says that owners of direct download sites should be able to
filter the copyrighted content by implementing
content recognition technologies such as digital fingerprinting.
These systems could be used to remove content upon the request of
copyright holders.
If site operators are unwilling to add these mechanisms, the report
suggests steps such as search engine de-listings or involving the
courts in order to seize or permanently block the domains.
The report also include measures to target the finances of any
sites subject to the copyright alerts. These would include blocking
of PayPal accounts, the use of credit cards and advertising, or
even legal actions.
France has implemented the so-called "three-strikes" warning system
against illegal P2P downloads since 2010.
Earlier this week, a similar "six-strikes? warning system has come
into effect in the U.S.
The HADOPI report will be reviewed further before the agency
decides on any action.