The Japanese parliament has passed an amendment to existing copyright laws that for the first time makes it illegal for private users to download copyrighted material that has been uploaded without the permission of the rights-holders. However, there are caveats – users must be aware that the files were illegally uploaded, and there’s no mandatory fine or jail term if they are. Instead, it will be down to rights-holders to claim civil damages. The RIAJ has welcomed the amendment. “Our organization will continue its work to stop all copyright infringement and will make our best effort to inform the public of the changes to the law,” says CEO Kei Ishizaka.