Quote: "simply stay on topic"
The original thread starter was
banned for piracy. I'd say this thread hasn't strayed too far away from that subject.
Quote: "no, it is copying, last time i checked copying an object isnt stealing eh? therefore copying a virtual file isnt stealing"
Copying a virtual file
for yourself as a backup, is in fact, acceptable in many software license agreements. However, redistributing that file to anyone other than the original buyer is piracy. Obtaining a piece of software that costs money that you didn't pay for, rather ripped from a website torrent, is piracy. Doesn't matter if people 'don't think' this is stealing, because the law says it is.
EDIT: Quik, read your new reply. I believe the technical term you're looking for would be copyright infringement.
Now, are my intentions to fine everyone on that website $100,000 while they're sitting in jail for pirating a few of my models, and several hundred dollars in other assets? Absolutely not. It's been said before; and I agree. That doesn't fit the punishment. My main objective is to see the website shut down. Now, if the BSA manages to arrange a small fine to some of the bigger contributors there, I won't object. The bigger the punishment, the less likely people are to do it again.
@rolfy, thanks for the heads up. I've been sending a few reports to mediafire/megaupload, and they've been taking down some of the torrents. I've also referred those reports to the BSA. The way that I figure it, the more 'evidence' I submit to them, the more likely they are to pursue action.
Kravenwolf
