Possible Removal of Digital Copy Codes on eBay Raises Legal Questions

By Karla Robinson
April 25, 2012

According to a report from The Consumerist, eBay could be removing listings for digital copy codes on the grounds of copyright infringement, setting a standard that selling digital copy codes bundled with Blu-ray discs is illegal.
One user claims that eBay removed his listing for an UltraViolet movie code on the basis of copyright infringement. “The owner claims that despite the existence of similar listings and explaining that the code was legally obtained, eBay maintained its stance,” reports The Verge.
“The resale of physical media, such as DVDs, Blu-rays, and games has long been sanctioned under the first-sale doctrine, while the rights for owners of digital content have been hotly contested,” explains the post. In regards to digital copy films, only the individual who accesses the one-time use code is affected by service terms.
“Ultimately, the rules for digital copy versions of films require further definition, though it seems unlikely that this particular instance will spark the debate,” the post suggests.

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