Copyright law applies to downloading, sharing and streaming just as in the world of physical CDs and DVDs. If you make music, film or TV content available to others on a file-sharing network, download from an illegal site, or sell copies without the permission of those who own the copyright, then you are breaking the law and could face serious penalties. Penalties are covered by civil and criminal law in the UK. People who do it could face legal action resulting in damages and payment of costs.
Resources
What is copyright and why is it important?
If you download digital content illegally, you could be breaking the law and face consequences
Find out how downloading breaks the law.