It was reported earlier that the RIAA was readying all manner of tools to subvert the online distribution of music by distributing bandwidth hogging decoys that make downloading copyrighted music a less enjoyable experience. Today, everyone’s favorite spokesman for the recording studios, Representative Berman of Californiaput a billbefore the House that allows copyright holders to hack into peer to peer networks in order to foil sharing. Exactly what is allowed isn’t clearly stated by the bill, but some limitations are vaguely outlined such as the need for copyright holders to notify individuals and the Department of Justice upon taking any action and these companies can only go after their own material. Those copyright holders whose actions are deemed “extreme” can face law suits from individuals that suffer economic loss as a result. I’d just like to make it known right now, that my computer is essential for my job and any efforts to harm it will result in loss of productivity on my part. The RIAA had much to say on the matter:
