The Radio and Television Commission of Lithuania (RTCL) has adopted decisions in administrative offence cases and has already fined more than 30 individuals this year for illegally downloading and distributing one of Lithuania’s most popular films, Pietinia Kronika.

Each offender received a fine of €140. In November alone, 10 individuals were penalised.

Not Only Downloaded, but Also Shared

Following several complaints from the film’s rights holder, VšĮ In Script, the RTCL established that more than 30 individuals this year not only illegally downloaded the film for personal use from websites such as linkomanija.net and torrent.lt, but also enabled other users to access and download the content.

Lithuanian Law Provides for Liability

The Law on Copyright and Related Rights clearly states that the author of a work holds the exclusive right to decide how it may be used.

Lithuanian legislation establishes strict liability for both the illegal copying of a work and its public communication or making it available online.

In other words, copyrighted works may not be used without the permission of the author or rights holder, except in cases explicitly provided for by law.

The law also allows rights holders to contact the LRTK if they detect the illegal use of their works or related rights objects online. Upon receiving such a request, the RTCL must take action to protect rights and stop the unlawful distribution of content.

Lack of Cooperation from Offenders

The RTCL contacted the individuals involved, requesting explanations and inviting them to participate in the administrative offence investigations. However, most of them did not respond or attend the proceedings.

As a result, the cases were examined in their absence.

For instance, on 18 November 2025, the RTCL identified a case in which an individual, M. K., illegally downloaded and distributed Pietinia Kronika. As this was a first-time offence, the Commission imposed half of the minimum fine provided for under Article 122(1) of the Code of Administrative Offences — €140.

Illegal Film Distribution Can Result in Significant Fines

The RTCL reminds the public that the illegal distribution of films or other audiovisual content online is subject to administrative liability, with fines ranging from €280 to €600.

For first-time offences, the Commission typically applies a reduced penalty of half the minimum fine. However, individuals who ignore warnings and continue to illegally distribute content may face higher fines under Article 122 of the Code.

Repeated violations are punishable by fines ranging from €600 to €850 (Article 122(2) of the Code of Administrative Offences).