Can I host a file sharing forum on my linode?
Is it allowed to host in linode?
8 Replies
I doubt Linode needs that sort of trouble and/or attention.
So, is it allowed or not?
@0x0a:
No I don't want to host a tracker. I want to host torrent files and other links for copyrighted materials.
So, is it allowed or not?
No. Not unless you are either the copyright holder, or have the permission of the copyright holder.
@Linode Terms of Service:
Any usage that prompts the receipt of abuse complaints pertaining to violation of United States and/or international copyright law must be promptly discontinued to avoid service cancellation for violation of these terms.
Past experience shows that, once Linode have received a few DMCA takedowns for your site and you start causing them disproportionate amounts of administrative work, you will be invited to take your business elsewhere, even if they don't just kill your account for ToS violations. You need one of those sleazy hosting services in the Ukraine.
Linode terms of serviceapplicable copyright law
I don't think filesharing links are illeal until it is linked to crack, keygen or similar stuff.
A. Host actual files which are protected by copyright, which you do not have permission to distribute. (like hosting ripped CDs on your site)
B. Post links to files which are protected by copyright, and the place you're linking to doesn't have permission to distribute them. (like posting torrent links)
Linode will eventually get a stack of DMCA notices, and you'll most likely be asked to leave.
On the other hand, it is legal (IANAL) to post links to the legitimate locations of copyrighted files. For example, if you post a link on your blog to Microsoft's IE9 download, you're fine. Likewise for other similar files, for which the copyright holder provides a legitimate public download. Apple's iOS updates come to mind.