An anchor sinks into the sea link by link...until it hits bottom.

[Daniel ~]

Written by Daniel
Friday, 15 September 2006
Aussies mull anti-modchip laws
The Inquirer
Tie me console down sport

By Nick Farrell: Friday 15 September 2006, 14:05

AUSSIE politicians are planning to release a law that will mean that users of modchipped gaming consoles could face fines of thousands of dollars.

New copyright protection laws are introduced this year by the Federal Government and were released in draft form last week, according to the Sydney Morning Herald. The Australians were forced to bring in the laws in accordance with the country’s new free trade agreement obligations with the US.

They will prohibit the use of all devices and services designed to circumvent copy control "technological protection measures"

Front page

[danrok]

What would the situation be if you buy a second-hand console which has been chipped, but you did not know?

Again, what if a minor mods their box? Would their parents end up in court despite having no knowledge of it or even understanding what it is all about?

Many children really don't understand the legalities of things like this.

[dsio]

It doesn't matter really. Everyone will still do it. Police are not going to raid people's homes and examine their Xboxes.

[aghastpumpkin]

If you own something, surely it's your choice what you do to it?

Oh no, you've put a cathode ray tube in your PC. We're gonna sue you now.....sigh...

[Daniel ~]

Does seem the line between hard and software is blurring as far as the law goes...it's not easy controlling everything everyone does, but the rich are trying! For with wealth comes great wisdom and the blessings of heaven.... ":O}