iTunes Ripping, Computer Backups Now Illegal In UK

All kinds of stupid. Britain’s High Court recently overturned copying exceptions allowed earlier in the year by the UK Government. That not only means iTunes ripping is illegal, but also performing computer backups (if the computer contains copyrighted material) is likewise verboten.

“It is now unlawful to make private copies of copyright works you own, without permission from the copyright holder – this includes format shifting from one medium to another,” said a spokesman for the UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO).

While the High Court might have some sort of reasonable constitutional quibble (if the UK actually had a constitution), it is much more likely that their honors just don’t grok computers and/or digital intellectual property rights. Maybe they think iTunes ripping carries the mark of the devil?

Regardless, the IPO is quite forgiving toward iTunes ripping.

“The Government is not aware of any cases of copyright holders having prosecuted individuals for format shifting music solely for their own personal use,” the IPO spokesperson said.

However, copyright holders can take people to court over both iTunes ripping and computer backups if they choose to…

What’s your take?