T J Alok, LLM, NUALS, Kochi
ABSTRACT
The Modern-digital age has significantly reshaped copyright law, requiring major adaptations to meet the challenges of rapid technological advancements. Traditional copyright systems, designed for physical media, have struggled to keep up with the unique characteristics of digital content distribution, which is fluid and global. The internet has provided unprecedented access to creative works, bringing both opportunities and challenges in protecting intellectual property rights. This paper discusses the evolution of copyright law in response to these changes, highlighting key legal reforms, court rulings, and international treaties that have influenced modern copyright frameworks. A critical aspect of this evolution involves balancing innovation and creativity with fair compensation and protection for creators. The rise of peer-to-peer networks, digital piracy, and content- sharing platforms has tested existing legal structures, prompting legislative responses like the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) in the U.S. and the Indian courts have also adopted a rather new concept for reducing electronic piracy that is the John doe order and The Information Technology Act, 2000 also provides provisions for imprisonment and fine for illegal distribution of copyright protected work through Internet. These reforms address digital infringement complexities while considering user rights and public interest. Additionally, the paper delves into ongoing debates surrounding copyright duration, fair use, and the role of intermediaries in the digital space. The internet's global nature highlights the necessity for harmonizing copyright laws, leading to the formation of international treaties and agreements. The research examines the dynamic and complex landscape of copyright law in today’s digital environment, considering recent case law and emerging technologies such as blockchain and artificial intelligence (AI), which impact copyright enforcement and innovation. Ultimately, the paper advocates for a nuanced approach that balances the interests of creators, users, and society, ensuring that copyright law remains relevant and effective amid continuous technological changes.
Keywords: The John doe order, Artificial intelligence (AI), Digital piracy, The Information Technology Act, 2000, blockchain
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