Dutch publishers to cooperate with Brein to counter e-book piracy

With the rising star of e-readers, e-book piracy is also increasing. Dutch publishing association GAU has approached Brein to be able to better counter piracy in the e-book market.

According to GAU, the time to step up the enforcement of copyright is now. “With effective enforcement of copyright, we can sustainably stimulate creativity and ensure an ample and varied supply of e-books.”

Webwereld reports that online marketplaces are widely used to market illegal copies. On Marktplaats.nl, the leading Dutch classifieds site, CDs that contain 800 e-books with works of noted Dutch authors are sold for ten euros.

GAU has initiated the cooperation because of Brein’s extensive experience. “In Brein, GAU has found a partner with much know-how in the field of countering piracy,” writes GAU in a press release. “Given the international nature of piracy, Brein cooperates closely with many international organisations abroad.”

The two organisations are setting up a pilot to explore the size of the issue and to formulate a proper strategy. Efforts will mainly be directed at online trading sites, p2p, usenet and filehosting.

13 April 2010