PROSECUTORS IN THE United States have added more charges to their case against the file-sharing website Megaupload, which is accused of costing copyright holders more than $500m (€380m) in lost revenue.

The company, whose founder Kim Dotcom is currently fighting an extradition order by the US, will now face extra charges of wire fraud and criminal copyright infringement, the Wall Street Journal reports. The company was already facing charges of illegally distributing copyrighted films and music.

A US federal grand jury has accused several of the individuals and entities involved in the operation of a number of crimes, including conspiracy to commit racketeering, copyright infringement and money laundering, as well as criminal copyright infringement.

The website, and its subsidiary site MegaVideo, were shut down in January by the US Department of Justice and the FBI and Dotcom and three of the site’s other operators were arrested.

According to the US indictment, Dotcom earned $42 million last year.

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

For the price of one cup of coffee each week you can make sure we can keep reliable, meaningful news open to everyone regardless of their ability to pay.

Support us Learn More

MegaUpload founder refused bail, denies ‘mega conspiracy’>

MegaUpload founder to remain in jail>

Less free TV as MegaUpload (and MegaVideo) shut down>

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.