The University of Michigan has developed a system that detects users who are swapping files on peer-to-peer networks and automatically e-mails them a notice of the activity. The system, called “Be Aware You’re Uploading,” doesn’t stop the file trading, which in many cases constitutes illegally swapping pirated music or movies. Instead the e-mail notice contains “educational information” about illegal file sharing, according to the program’s Web page.
Aside from delivering a daily dose of guilt to those who are pirating music intentionally, the system lets less tech-savvy students who are swapping music unintentionally know about it. Some software automatically dishes out a user’s music library without their knowledge.
Ars Technica reports that Northwestern University started the same service on its campus this week, and that the University of Michigan is encouraging other campuses to use their software and materials to follow suit.—Jeffrey R. Young
