The lessons of MGM v Grokster [copyright-infringement]

The US Supreme Court has decided in favor of MGM Studios Inc. and several other entertainment companies on the case filed against Grokster Ltd. and Streamcast Networks Inc. The court agreed with MGM that the providers of peer-to-peer file-sharing services not only facilitated but actively encouraged widespread downloading of copyright-protected material over the Internet. This decision renewed the debate on the rights of technological innovators against those who own artistic works. While the court provides a checklist of dubious practices to avoid, innovators are urged to exercise caution and be wary when they develop technologies that could be used to infringe on copyrights.