In a landmark decision that will bum out media pirates, but positively thrill record label executives, long-running file-sharing service LimeWire is being shut down. A U.S. federal judge handed down the decision today (October 26) that will halt all downloading activity, as the company has been found liable for copyright infringement.
A Reuters report explains that an injunction has now been issued to the peer-to-peer service that prevents "the searching, downloading, uploading, file-trading and/or file distribution functionality, and/or all functionality" of LimeWire's peer-to-peer file-sharing software, according to the company.
The decision clearly marks the end of LimeWire as it currently operates, which has been a major hub for downloading music and movies for free since its inception in 2000.
"While this is not our ideal path, we hope to work with the music industry in moving forward," a LimeWire company spokeswoman said in a statement. "We look forward to embracing necessary changes and collaborating with the entire music industry in the future."
The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) filed suit against LimeWire's practices in 2007 and is reportedly looking into seeking damages, estimated at over $1 billion.
A Reuters report explains that an injunction has now been issued to the peer-to-peer service that prevents "the searching, downloading, uploading, file-trading and/or file distribution functionality, and/or all functionality" of LimeWire's peer-to-peer file-sharing software, according to the company.
The decision clearly marks the end of LimeWire as it currently operates, which has been a major hub for downloading music and movies for free since its inception in 2000.
"While this is not our ideal path, we hope to work with the music industry in moving forward," a LimeWire company spokeswoman said in a statement. "We look forward to embracing necessary changes and collaborating with the entire music industry in the future."
The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) filed suit against LimeWire's practices in 2007 and is reportedly looking into seeking damages, estimated at over $1 billion.
