As if music copyright laws weren’t mucky enough as they are, the Canadian government is reportedly working with other governments and industry groups, like the dreaded RIAA, to work out a trade agreement for digital downloads, called the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement.
Designed to combat counterfeit movies and albums, the law would allow customs officials to check laptops, cellphones, iPods and other digital devices at the borders of member nations for offending files.
Depending on how it’s worded, if you were to rip your Cure CD to your iPod, the guards could theoretically seize it and fine you upon entry to the country.
This is horrible in every way, and we’re with those who say that governments shouldn’t bow to thugs like the RIAA when it comes to international trade agreements. Welcome to the future, friends!