IFPI instant messaging statement

Thursday, 14 August

The recording industry's online awareness activities enter a new phase as industry groups in four countries begin sending instant messages directly to peer-to-peer (P2P) users who appear to be distributing copyrighted music without authorisation from the rights owners.

Record industry associations in Australia, Canada, Denmark and Germany will be sending out information messages reminding users that the distribution of copyrighted music over the internet without permission is illegal. The messages also point out that unauthorised 'file-sharing' harms the artists, songwriters, musicians, record labels and everyone else involved in making the music that users want to 'share'.

The instant messaging initiative is the latest awareness project on online use of music. Earlier this year Copyright Use and Security Guides were mailed to thousands of companies, government offices and educational institutions in more than 20 countries. In May IFPI and organisations representing authors, retailers and musicians joined in the launch of www.pro-music.org, the first and most comprehensive online information source about legitimate music worldwide on the Web.

IFPI represents the recording industry worldwide, with more than 1,500 record company members in over 75 countries and has affiliated national associations in 46 countries.

For further information please contact: Julie Harari or Fiona Harley at IFPI Secretariat, Tel: +44 (0)20 7878 7900