We Received A Notice From ASTOUND That One Of Our Public Hotspots Was Used To Illegally Share Copyrighted Materials

They were able to tell us the date, time and location in the building this was done, and even that it was “Wicked” that was stolen.

This is very serious. Pursuant to agreements ASTOUND has with content providers as well as their contract with Park Tower, they could be required to eliminate our WiFi service.

Fortunately for us, pretty much all our WiFi locations have surveillance and we are investigating to identify the residents who did this. A NOTICE OF VIOLATION is expected to be issued to the Owner for a hearing with the PTCA Rules Commission. A fine may result up to the $5000 maximum allowed by the Rules.

This happened in the past and the Board passed what was at the time the maximum fine of $1000. We would expect due to the value of having WiFi as an amenity in building that the Board would pass the the new maximum $5000 fine. If our right to WiFi internet access was permanently disabled due to such activity, that may also result in litigation against the offender.

“Wicked” is available for rental and purchasing on several streaming networks, such as PRIME Video, and is expected to be streaming in March on Peacock. Purchasing such works and viewing them through proper and legal outlets ensures that artists and content creators get paid and can then go on creating more original content. It also ensures that we will be able to keep this important amenity in place.

So, please do not use our Public WiFi network to commit any illegal acts.