Andre Yoskowitz
3 Dec 2013 20:29
Once-popular cyberlocker Hotfile has settled its long-standing lawsuit with Hollywood and the MPAA, meaning the service will soon shut down for good unless they can "effectively implement 'digital fingerprinting' tech" that will block users from uploading unauthorized files to their servers.
Following the settlement, owner Anton Titov must pay damages totaling $80 million to the major movie studios.
The MPAA was quick to claim victory, stating that this is the first case in which a "US court has ruled on whether so-called cyberlockers like Hotfile can be held liable for their infringing business practices."
Hotfile had received a shocking 10 million DMCA notices before the lawsuit was filed in 2011 and at its peak was one of the largest lockers on the planet.
MPAA chairman Chris Dodd added: "This judgment by the court is another important step toward protecting an internet that works for everyone. Sites like Hotfile that illegally profit off of the creativity and hard work of others do a serious disservice to audiences, who deserve high-quality, legitimate viewing experiences online."
Read the full release here.