CEA Comments On FTC Complaint Against Copyright Owner Misrepresentation of Consumer Rights.

ARLINGTON, Va. -- In a complaint filed with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) today, the Computer and Communication Industry Association (CCIA) sought federal action to block certain copyright-holding corporations from misrepresenting consumer rights under copyright law. Specifically CCIA asked the FTC to find that certain companies are engaged in a pattern of unfair and deceptive trade practices in threatening consumers with criminal and civil penalties through exaggerated "copyright warnings" disseminated to consumers. CCIA alleges that such warnings materially misrepresent the constitutional and statutory copyright obligations of consumers.

The following statement may be attributed to Gary Shapiro, president and CEO of the Consumer Electronics Association:

"Many copyright warnings ignore consumer fair use rights and should be modified to reflect the true rights of consumers who lawfully acquire audio and video content. Now more than ever, it is essential that all stakeholders accurately educate consumers about our obligations--and our rights--under copyright law."

About CEA:

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the $148 billion U.S. consumer technology industry through technology policy, events, research, promotion and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA represents more than 2,100 corporate members involved in the design, development, manufacturing, distribution and integration of audio, video, mobile electronics, wireless and landline communications, information technology, digital imaging, home networking, multimedia and accessory products, as well as related services that are sold through consumer channels. CEA's resources are available online at www.CE.org, the definitive source for information about the consumer electronics industry.

CEA also sponsors and manages the International CES - Where Entertainment, Technology and Business Converge. All profits from CES are reinvested into industry services, including technical training and education, industry promotion, engineering standards development, market research and legislative advocacy.

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