copyright

[chris1970]

is it legal to copy music cd's for your own purpose,back ups etc

[Whickerman]

In the US, yes, in the EU, no.

[andy-hughes]

It's not, but in the same way it's not legal to drive over 30 mph in a built-up area, it goes on, and no-one really tries to pretend otherwise.

[SaxyJag]

In this country, you're allowed to copy CDs for personal purposes only. That includes making backup copies. However, you are not allowed to sell them on or use them for public performance (which is the same as for 'legit' CDs anyway).

You're not allowed, technically, to make a copy for a friend, but it goes on. Some people get really uptight about it, but I have spoken to artists who really don't mind it happening at this level.

[Pippa68]

Yes ~ you can do it as long as you don't 'lend or sell' the copies on.

[Aschenbach]

Similarly, it's illegal to keep anything you've taped on video for more than 30 days

[Whickerman]

This from Ebay's guides:

Q 2.3 I was only selling back up copies on CD-R, surely this is allowed?
A. You are not allowed to make a copy of a sound recording in the UK (under the Copyrights, Designs & Patents Act 1988), whether it is for back up or otherwise.

[Whickerman]

This from the BBC

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/3256945.stm