The following scenario crossed my mind: I buy an ebook and download it directly to a memory card plugged into my Sony Reader. I then make a backup copy on my own computer, but the original file remains on the card. I then loan the card - containing the actual file I purchased - to a friend so that he can read the book. He now has the original book I purchased - not a copy of it. I have loaned it, but I have not copied it - at least, not for
him.
The language of the T&C specifically states you cannot distribute a book using electronic means. 'Distribution' implies many copies. A single, original, purchased file,
even if not copied for backup, then might - or so I speculate - be legally loaned to someone else.
Is there anything I missed?
Quote:
Originally Posted by HarryT
No, because you are not making a copy of the book by doing so. If you give someone a copy of an eBook, on the other hand, you are making a copy of it, hence copyright law applies. The only exception to this would be if you were to lend your friend your actual reading device, with the book on it. That may be prohibited by the T&C's at the bookstore where you bought the book, but it's not a breach of copyright.
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