US Authorities announced recently that their new initiative ,called “Operation in our sites”,seized three other domain names linked to websites engaged in the illegal distribution of copies of copyrighted Android cell phone applications .
Officials said that this was the first time website domain names involving cell phone application marketplaces have been seized .The three domain names seized by the feds are : applanet.net, appbucket.net and snappzmarket.com
“Cracking down on piracy of copyrighted works – including popular apps – is a top priority of the Criminal Division.Software apps have become an increasingly essential part of our nation’s economy and creative culture, and the Criminal Division is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to protect the creators of these apps and other forms of intellectual property from those who seek to steal it,” said Assistant Attorney General Breuer.
“Criminal copyright laws apply to apps for cell phones and tablets, just as they do to other software, music and writings. These laws protect and encourage the hard work and ingenuity of software developers entering this growing and important part of our economy. We will continue to seize and shut down websites that market pirated apps, and to pursue those responsible for criminal charges if appropriate,” said U.S. Attorney Yates.
“The theft of intellectual property, particularly within the cyber arena, is a growing problem and one that cannot be ignored by the U.S government’s law enforcement community. These thefts cost companies millions of dollars and can even inhibit the development and implementation of new ideas and applications. The FBI, in working with its various corporate and government partners, is not only committed to combating such thefts but is well poised to coordinate with the many jurisdictions that are impacted by such activities,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Lamkin.
Visitors to all the three websites are greeted with a banner notifying them that the sites have been seized and that copyright infringement is a federal crime :
“This domain name has been seized by the FBI – Federal Bureau of Investigation pursuant to a seizure warrant issued by a United States District Court under the authority of Title 18,United States Code,Sections 981 and 2323 .
Willful copyright infringement is a federal crime that carries penalties forr first time offenders of up to five years in federal prison,a $250,000 fine,forfeiture and restitution(Title 17,United States Code,Section 506,Title 18,United States Code,Section 2319) .’
