Fact check: Downloading pirated content in germany isn't illegal only distributing it is

1. Summary of the results

1. Summary of the results:

The statement is incorrect. Both downloading and distributing copyrighted content without authorization are illegal under German law. The law explicitly condemns any kind of file sharing activity related to copyrighted content, including both downloading and uploading.

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints:

• While both activities are illegal, enforcement primarily focuses on uploading/distribution, which typically results in warning letters (Abmahnungen)
• Fines are specifically structured: around €1,000 per file, with the Federal Court considering €200 per song "reasonable"
• Internet connection owners can be held legally responsible even if they didn't personally download the content
• Since April 2017, even streaming illegal content can lead to legal consequences
• Using torrents automatically makes you a distributor while downloading, as you're simultaneously sharing the content

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement:

The statement appears to stem from a common misconception that benefits both:

• Regular users who want to justify downloading copyrighted content without feeling legally threatened
• Torrent and file-sharing platforms that profit from increased user traffic by downplaying legal risks

The statement dangerously oversimplifies German copyright law, potentially misleading users into believing downloading is safe from legal consequences. In reality, both downloading and distributing are illegal activities that can result in significant financial penalties, with fines ranging from €500 to €1,500 per instance of infringement.