Japanese users of the BitTorrent file-sharing software are facing hefty fines after downloading adult videos for free. A self-employed man in Tokyo received a court notice and a demand for 500,000 yen ($3,200) from a lawyer representing a video production company. The man initially thought it was a scam but realized the documents were genuine after reviewing them. He sought legal advice and is now negotiating to reduce the amount demanded.
Cases involving settlement demands over alleged copyright infringement linked to adult videos have surged in Japan. The Tokyo District Court reported a sharp rise in applications for orders to disclose identifying information, from 814 in 2023 to 5,320 in 2025. A communications ministry survey found that 95.6 percent of disclosure requests in 2024 concerned alleged copyright infringement involving adult videos.
Video production companies have developed systems to identify IP addresses of users suspected of sharing copyrighted material. They then seek court orders to reveal user information before pursuing settlements or damages. The communications ministry has warned against casual use of file-sharing software as disputes over payment demands continue.
Lawyers representing both copyright holders and users have differing views on the situation. Izumi Toda, a lawyer for copyright holders, warned against ignoring settlement demands, stating that refusal to respond could lead to criminal complaints. Yasufumi Sasanami, a lawyer advising users, criticized the high sums sought and called for clearer court standards on appropriate compensation.