Apr 23, 2009 • 1 min read

Swedish ISPs resist post-trial calls to block the Bay

Swedish internet service providers are resisting IFPI requests to block The Pirate Bay following the trial verdict, saying the ruling does not bind them.

Another way to restrict file-sharing, of course, is to get internet service providers to block access to The Pirate Bay and their ilk. There have been moves by the record companies to put such blockades in place in recent years, of course, though few ISPs are that keen on blocking access to any site based on copyright concerns alone. One in Denmark was forced to block the Bay through the courts, and another in Ireland said it would voluntarily block the site as part of a wider deal with the music industry, though I think they are actually yet to do so.

Reports suggest the International Federation Of The Phonographic Industry has written to Swedish ISPs since last Friday's ruling requesting they block access to The Pirate Bay which, the record label trade body argues, was proven to be illegal in last week's court hearing. But the net firms are resisting those requests.

According to the ZeroPaid website, a rep from one, Telia Sonera, told reporters "In part, this is not a legally binding decision, but above all, this is a judgment against Pirate Bay and nothing that effects any service provider. We will not take any action the contents if we are not compelled to do so". It remains to be seen if the IFPI can and will take any more action to force the Swedish net firms to stop their users from accessing The Pirate Bay.

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