Penalties can range from a loss of computer privileges to expulsion. Protects copyright owners from the unauthorized reproduction, adaptation or distribution of sound recordings, as well as certain digital performances to the public. The penalties differ slightly where the infringing activity is for commercial advantage or private financial gain. Repeat offenders can be imprisoned for up to 10 years. Repeat offenders can be imprisoned up to 6 years.
States have similar laws.
Nearly all states have piracy-related laws that make it a criminal offense to pirate, counterfeit or bootleg audio recordings. Like federal laws, these provisions typically make it illegal to copy, reproduce and distribute sound recordings without proper authorization from the owner of the recording. Performers are protected against piracy under this statute, making it a crime to copy and manufacture the sounds of a live performance of an artist and to distribute these reproductions. When it comes to copyright infringement, civil lawsuits by copyright owners are sometimes more widespread than criminal prosecutions. In short, you might not go to jail, but the punishment can still be very, very expensive.