The Copyright, Designs and Patents Act and Trade Descriptions Act carry maximum penalties of 2 years imprisonment. Conviction on indictment under the Trade Marks Act could lead to a maximum 10 year prison sentence. In addition, infringing copies can be seized and forfeited. Business premises become subject to inspection ( or the home, if the business is run from home ) and computer equipment may be seized and forfeited.

Where the infringing activity is for commercial advantage or private financial gain, sound recording infringements can be punishable by up to 5 years in prison and $250,000 in fines. Repeat offenders can be imprisoned for up to 10 years. Violators can also be held civilly liable for actual damages, lost profits, or statutory damages up to $150,000 per infringement, as well as attorney’s fees and costs.

The online infringement of copyrighted music can be punished by up to 3 years in prison and $250,000 in fines. Repeat offenders can be imprisoned up to 6 years. Individuals also may be held civilly liable, regardless of whether the activity is for profit, for actual damages or lost profits, or for statutory damages up to $150,000 per infringed copyright.