Abstract
This investigation seeks to find out if current actions taken are effective in reducing online music piracy. Online music piracy is the illegal sharing of copyrighted music over the internet and is a growing issue as the internet becomes more accessible. It has a damaging effect on the music industry, as the incomes of artists, producers, and others alike are affected. Research was conducted to identify the relevant legal and technological measures currently undertaken, and to determine if they are effective in curbing online music piracy. This was done through a survey to reveal teenagers’ music consumption habits, and internet searches, which provided a myriad of information, including comprehensive case studies and useful statistics to support a conclusion. It was found that methods such as Digital Rights Management have helped reduce the problem, and content filtering and site blocking, through the cooperation of internet service providers and governmental bodies, have limited access to illegal music online. Also, consumer education via campaigns and education programs, as well as strict enforcement and penalties have provided awareness to the public on the severity of music piracy. The report concludes that the actions currently undertaken are effective in reducing online music piracy. (198 words)

1. Introduction
1.1 Copyright infringement
Online music piracy is ever-increasing. The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) describes online piracy as the use of creative content on the internet that violates copyright. By definition, copyright is the exclusive right to produce copies and to control an original musical, literary or artistic work, granted by law for a specified number of years. (Collins online dictionary 2011), When one intentionally violates copyright law, infringement occurs.
1.2 Background
With more people having access to the internet, together with advancements in information technology, digital copying has been made easier than ever. Around the globe, the volume of unauthorized music consumption overshadows that of legal music. 28% of internet users access unapproved music services monthly, according to IFPI/Nielsen (2011). Online music piracy has caused much trouble, and various legal and technological measures have taken place to solve this issue. This report looks into these actions and their effectiveness.

2. Music piracy
2.1 Sources of illegal music
Personal Survey, 2012
Personal Survey, 2012
There are countless methods for internet users to obtain music, but many of them are illegal. These include peer-to-peer (P2P) networks, cyberlockers, illegal streaming services, forums and torrents. Around a half of pirated music is from P2P networks, and cyberlockers are fast-growing in popularity. Findings from a research (Internet Commerce Security Laboratory, cited in IFPI 2011) showed that 89% of all torrent files online in April 2010 linked to infringing content. A personal survey conducted (refer to figure 1) reveals that the main reason for using these methods is “because it’s free” (76%). Users need only access to the internet to get the music they want conveniently, without any cost.
Personal Survey, 2012
Personal Survey, 2012
Figure 1
Figure 1

2.2 The need for action
The increase in online music piracy has caused the music industry to suffer financially. From 2004 to 2010, revenue from recorded music declined by 31% globally (IFPI 2011). Music publishers suffer the most as their investments in the artists do not reap in as much profit. Although established artists will able to earn a steady income through live performances and other sources, the decline in profits for recording companies due to piracy will affect developing artists as less money can be spent on marketing and nurturing of new talent. Besides a fall in revenue, more money has to be spent to develop better piracy prevention methods.
Music piracy also has a negative effect