The recording industry, facing challenges with music piracy, is linking peer-to-peer file-sharing networks to the distribution of pornography, including child pornography. Sony Music's CEO, Andrew Lack, expressed shock at the use of these services for illegal and harmful content. Conversely, Philip S. Corwin, a lobbyist for KaZaA, accuses the industry of a smear campaign, deeming their association with child pornography unfair.
The record labels are actively supporting anti-pornography and child protection groups, such as Parents for Megan's Law, which are critical of the availability of child pornography through file-sharing services. This strategic partnership aims to leverage public outrage to pressure for stricter regulations on file-sharing.
While pornography has been present on file-sharing networks from their inception, the recent focus by the music industry suggests a calculated strategy to shift public opinion and strengthen their anti-piracy efforts. This raises ethical questions regarding the industry's motives and the potential for exploiting a serious social issue for political gain.