Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Tough internet laws in France

Updated at 12:30 pm on 3 January 2010

Tough laws against internet piracy are now in effect in France.

Under the Creation & Internet Bill, illegal downloaders will be sent a warning e-mail, then a letter if they continue. They will have to appear before a judge if they offend again.

The judge can impose a fine, or suspend their access to the internet.

A new agency, the Higher Authority for the Distribution of Works and the Protection of Copyright on the Internet, has also been established.

The BBC reports the law was backed by the entertainment industry. However, opponents say that it is too draconian.

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