As we discussed earlier this morning, the popular file-sharing and questionably legal OiNK site came down when British and Dutch authorities arrested the alleged 24-year-old proprietor, who lives in Middlesbrough and whose fear of prosecution is probably growing bigger than hometown manager Gareth Southgate’s teeth.
So that guy’s dunzo, for sure. But are you safe? Is your identity known to authorities, and if it is, will the RIAA or the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry come after you? Well, a note on OiNK’s now-defunct site says you may be facing your worst nightmare: “A criminal investigation continues into the identities and activities of the site’s users.” TorrentFreak has more.
I’d doubt the authorities would have either the wherewithal or the bullocks to go for the gusto and track everyone down, but this is the Holy Grail of lists, the chance to scare everyone straight and hunt down the 180,000 worst offenders. It’s like shooting down Con Air. This alleged OiNK mastermind has nothing to offer except his ‘customers,’ and I wouldn’t be shocked if a massive, merciless legal campaign began in earnest this morning. Or not. Who the fuck knows? Thoughts?
- Previously on HT: Stop Stealing Food from STS9’s Children
3 Responses
My first thought is that I doubt anything will happen to the casual users. MAYBE if they can prove that the donate option meant it was a pay site.
My second thought is, that I am somewhat glad that Oink is taken down. But this is not the solution. More and more, in todays corporate landscape, it is harder to find “new” music. Record companies, and the larger public, are to scared to take chances. Also, RADIO has become a mockery. What used to be the prime source for new, interesting, FREE, music, is now relegated to playing a computer playlist, or playing the top 10 adult contemporary background music.
well, I’ve never even HEARD of this site!… and thats the story Im sticking with….
I think they sell fine pork products. Or something like that.