Key takeaways
The key changes introduced by the Copyright Bill have been discussed in our earlier update, Singapore: Ministry of Law and IPOS seek public feedback on proposed Copyright Bill (23 March 2021). In summary, the Copyright Bill introduces the following key changes:
- Introduction of new rights and remedies for creators and performers.
- New exceptions to copyright owners’ rights, known as 'permitted uses'.
- A thematic structuring of provisions, with an aim to enhance the Copyright Act's clarity and accessibility.
Since its proposal, the Copyright Bill has introduced an amended threshold for the offence of selling illicit streaming devices that now covers situations where sellers sell 'empty' streaming devices (e.g., set-top boxes) without infringing apps or works for the buyer to install later.
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For further information and to discuss what this development might mean for you, please get in touch with your usual Baker McKenzie contact.
Threshold for offence of sale of illicit streaming devices amended
Previously under the proposed Copyright Bill, criminal liability was proposed to be imposed on persons who make or distribute devices that allow for the streaming of audio-visual content that provides access to a 'flagrantly infringing online location'.
This threshold has since been changed, and a person will be liable for an offence if they make or distribute devices that allow for access to copyright works where they have knowledge that the device or service is capable of facilitating access to copyright works without authorisation and has only a limited commercially significant purpose or use other than that capability.
This expansion will therefore cover situations where sellers sell 'empty' streaming devices (e.g., set-top boxes) without infringing apps or works for the buyer to install later, and is a welcome further protection for right-holders.
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