Tightens the cluster around ‘pirates’ of the internet

Of Chrysostom Chufi

The … loop on the neck of the “pirates” on the internet is made by the Joint Ministerial Decision signed by Culture Minister Lina Mendoni and Deputy Minister of Finance George Kotsiras.

The decision – which sets out the framework for the implementation of the relevant law passed on February 18 – tightens and expands controls, increases fines of up to € 5,000 and “puts” the frame of responsibility not only illegal software traffickers but also its users.

Even simple watching a match or movie via streaming will cost … expensive. Even 1000 € depending on the infringement. If it is not broadcast or commercial then we have at least fivefolding of the fine.

The new fines is as follows:

The fines are doubled in the event of a recurrence, but also in cases where the culprit wishes to avoid the judicial proceedings with criminal prosecutions and courts. It should also be noted that in addition to the fines, the offender should also compensate the legal holders of the copyright.

The decision of Mendoni and Kotsira puts on the audit game a series of audit authorities such as the Independent Public Revenue Authority (AADE), the Financial Crimes Prosecution (SDOE), even the Greek Police and Port Authority. All of the above principles acquire the right to start the fines.

The audit can be carried out either by complaint or by investigating judicial investigation.

The illegal equipment that may be found is confiscated and drafted a protocol. The controller then has 10 days at his disposal to submit objections and objections. After the expiry of the 10 -day period and if the positions of the audited are rejected, a fine shall be imposed.

The decision provides for the creation of a central database by the Intellectual Property Organization, accessible by all audit authorities. This means that each infringement would be recorded and affecting future sanctions

Government intervention comes in support of the efforts made by legal platforms to combat piracy such as the COSMOTE and Nova agreement to exchange athletic content.