
Use Copyright Material Legally
Downloading or sharing software, entertainment, or images may violate United States copyright law. Many torrent applications default to continue sharing your downloads with other users. Learn how to distribute content legally.
Challenge
Downloading or sharing software, entertainment, or images may violate United States copyright law. Many torrent applications default to continue sharing your downloads with other users.
How do you download or distribute content legally?
Solutions
Use one of the Legal Sources of Online Content.
Know that United States copyright law applies to music, movies, games, photos, software, and other files in digital format. Downloading or distributing copyrighted material without explicit permission from the copyright holder is against the law.
How to legally share content:
- Obtain explicit permission from copyright owners to share a file
- Have proof that you have permission to download or distribute a file
- Verify that your sources for media files actually have permission to distribute the files
- Password-protect the files you DO have permission to share
- Disable the share feature or uninstall your "file-sharing" software
- Read enclosed licenses of media or material you purchase
- Educate yourself regarding general copyright law and topics such as copyright infringement liability, fair use, identifying copyright owners, and how to obtain permission
Nothing contained in this document may be construed or relied upon as legal advice. Consult an attorney directly regarding your specific legal needs.
The University of Minnesota does investigate copyright complaints from copyright owners, immediately remove access to the offending materials if notified by the copyright owner, and pursue appropriate disciplinary actions under the University Conduct Codes and University policies.
Do-It-Yourself Resources
Experts & Communities
If you believe your copyrighted work is being infringed on a University of Minnesota site, contact University Information Security (UIS).
Experts & Communities
The University of Minnesota Libraries provides copyright permission services, including free consultation and workshops.
Good Practices
As a rule, do not share downloaded materials with others via peer-to-peer software like BitTorrent or other torrent applications.
Challenge
Can you legally share a video or mp3 file you downloaded with...
Resources
Provides a list of the legitimate online services that are approved by the AAP, MPAA, and RIAA.
Resources
Summary of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) of 1998.
Resources
This document describes seven things you should know about peer-to-peer file sharing (P2P).