A note on the “blackout” that’s in the news
So, even people with little interest in digital media or copyright issues are becoming aware of the fuss over Section 92 of the Copyright Amendment Act.
The mainstream media began taking notice when concern spread beyond the technical community in New Zealand — ISPs and professional organisations such as the New Zealand Computer Society had roundly criticised the legislation as unfair and unworkable. British comedian Stephen Fry blacked out his Twitter account in sympathy with the many others in New Zealand who have blacked out their Twitter and Facebook avatars (pictures) in protest at the Act. This was picked up by a number of commentators.
Yesterday a petition of over 10000 signatures was presented to parliament by a protest group of between 120 and 300 people, depending who you believe. There is coverage of the protest in overseas media and on New Zealand television.
What’s it all about?
In brief, the amended law requires your ISP (which could also be your employer or the local public library) to disconnect you from the internet if they receive three complaints about you breaching copyright laws. That’s three allegations — no proof is required.
There’s more detail at the Creative Freedom blackout site.
March 23rd, 2009 at 8:44 pm
[...] while ago I wrote about the “blackout” campaign protesting about Section 92A of the Copyright Amendment Act. I’m pleased to announce that the [...]