File uploader

Introduction: Measures and Precautions

When uploading/downloading files online, users may wonder, "Is this legal? Is it illegal?" Especially when dealing with copyrighted works such as music, videos, and books, there is a risk of unknowingly committing a legal violation. Here, we summarize the

measures and safe practices

that users should know from the outset.

• Only handle content for which you have obtained permission from the author or rights holder
• Confirm the permitted formats and scopes in the terms of use at the upload or sharing destination
• Avoid acts of knowingly using those that have been illegally uploaded
• If you use the service, choose a reliable platform (such as UploadF mentioned later)
• If you receive a request from a copyright holder, consult a lawyer or an expert

If you keep these points in mind, you can significantly reduce the risk of getting involved in legal troubles with everyday file sharing.

What is Illegal Uploading? — Differences from the Perspective of Uploading

"Uploading" refers to the action of sending or publishing files from the user’s side to a server or shared network. In this case, the act of publishing or distributing a copyrighted work without permission from the author or rights holder is considered "illegal uploading." Under copyright law, it is regarded as an infringement of public transmission rights, reproduction rights, and others.
Main features of illegal uploading:

• Publishing online without permission from the author or rights holders
• Making it accessible to an indefinite number of users
• In cases aimed at profit or advertising revenue, the responsibility is more severe

Those who engage in illegal uploading face heavy penalties, including

imprisonment for up to 10 years or fines of up to 10 million yen (or both)

.

What is Legal Uploading and Usage? — Awareness of Permissions and Exceptions

Not all uploads are illegal. The following cases may be judged as legal or permissible:

• Uploading content for which you have obtained explicit permission from the author or rights holder
• Handling works that are under open licenses (for example, CC licenses, public domain, etc.)
• Uploading and sharing according to the terms of service of the utilizing site/service
• In cases that fall under copyright law exceptions such as educational, research, or citation purposes

Relationship with Illegal Downloading and Precautions

"Uploading" and "downloading" are two sides of the same coin. Downloading a file knowing it has been illegally uploaded is considered

illegal downloading

under copyright law and can lead to criminal penalties.
Specifically, there are penalties set at

imprisonment for up to 2 years or fines of up to 2 million yen (or both)

.
However, regarding "merely viewing a video that has been illegally uploaded," the prevailing interpretation is that it is not generally subject to direct criminal penalties under current copyright law.

How is Streaming Playback Treated?

Streaming viewing (the process of playing back video while sequentially loading it) is different from downloading as it is not permanently stored on devices; therefore, there is a perspective that it may not be considered a duplication act.
However, in recent years, there has been a notion that "streaming content while knowing it has been illegally uploaded may also be deemed illegal," so there are aspects that cannot be considered completely safe.

A Proposal for Legal File Sharing: Introducing UploadF

For those wanting to engage in safe and legal file sharing, using a reliable

file uploader service

is effective. Here, we naturally introduce UploadF (uploadf.com).
Features of UploadF:

• Usable on both PC and smartphone
• Can upload via drag & drop
• Free to use
• Can upload up to 100 files simultaneously
• Has deletion functionality for individual files
• Can extend storage duration
• Supports numerous file extensions, emphasizes safety

However, no matter how convenient, if you do not adhere to the principle of "sharing only content for which you have obtained the permission of the copyright holder," sharing on UploadF could still be an illegal act.

Summary of Differences: Legal/Illegal Checklist

Below is a simple checklist for determining "legal vs illegal":

• Is the content for which you have obtained permission from the author or rights holder? → Yes: Legal. No: Illegal risk.
• Is the content under an open license or in the public domain? → Yes: Legal.
• Is it permitted according to the terms of the upload/sharing service? → Yes: Legal.
• Are you using it knowing it has been illegally uploaded? → Yes: Illegal risk.
• Is it not for profit or advertising revenue? → Profit motives increase legality risks.
• Is it streaming only? → Legal judgment may vary but should be handled carefully.

Conclusion: What to Be Aware of for Safe Digital Use

In summary, the primary distinction between illegal uploading and legal file usage boils down to

"whether there is permission from the rights holder"

. Additionally, "utilizing works known to have been illegally uploaded" creates significant legal risks.
For those who regularly share and use files, being aware of the following points can help avoid major troubles:

• Cultivate the habit of checking whether you have permission from the copyright holder
• Use trustworthy file-sharing services
• Do not ignore the terms of use and licensing provisions
• Avoid using suspicious content
• If a request comes, stay calm and consult legal professionals if necessary

By using reliable sharing services like UploadF while observing the precautions mentioned above, safe and legal file sharing can become possible.

References and Source List

General incorporated association Computer Software Copyright Association (ACCS): On file sharing software and copyright infringement
Criminal Defense Writer: Criminal penalties and laws for illegal uploading
MIO Law Office: Issues of copyright law concerning online video sites
Agency for Cultural Affairs: Information on online services related to the revision of copyright law
Recording Industry Association of Japan (RIAJ): STOP! Illegal Downloads
Aso-Ben.com: Is watching illegally uploaded videos illegal?
Star Sohgo Law Office: The legality of streaming illegal upload videos
Play Laboratory: Is streaming illegal upload videos illegal?


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