Site Legality

[mesmeric]

Just wondering what the legality of offering direct hashes to files is as shown at my site filesuneed (http://www.filesuneed.com) .
I havent done it for long, any one know if i can be busted for it?

mes

[rastagard]

Its really a very gray area. I don't think anyone has been sued or prosecuted for hosting hashes, but it is not outside of the realm of possibilities.


As far as your own site goes, I guess it is a personal decision. There are many sites that specialize in nothing but hash links. It is anybodies guess whether they will ever have any problems doing it. The thinking is that since no actual files are being exchanged on the site itself, nothing illegal is taking place.


UTC and many other P2P related forums have taken the position that it is best to stick with discussion, education and information. Therefore we do not allow hash links to be posted here.


The ultimate decision about whether or not to host them is really just a judgement call, at this time.

[vernarial]

Several sites have been shut down by their hosts, or ISPs' because of it. I would say if you are going to, then make sure you back up everything regularly, and have another host ready, just in case. If you want, then you can ask your host/ISP what their stance is on offering hashes, but you might just be allerting them to the fact that you are, when they might never have noticed before. :)