FileSonic deactivates file-sharing following Megaupload closure

Cyberlocker takes precautionary measure after rival is shut down

The file-sharing service FileSonic has deactivated its sharing capabilities following US officials' shutdown of the Megaupload website.

The FileSonic website had allowed users to upload files onto its virtual storage for other users to download but this was halted on Sunday.

A message on FileSonic's website reads: "All sharing functionality on FileSonic is now disabled. Our service can only be used to upload and retrieve files that you have uploaded personally."

Although cyberlockers such as FileSonic can be used legitimately to share files, they can also be used to upload and download copyrighted material, which is illegal.

The disablement of FileSonic's sharing functionality comes after US prosecutors charged rival cyberlocker Megaupload.com with violating copyright laws.

The Megaupload website redirects users to a FBI anti-piracy warning from the Department of Justice that says that the site has been seized.

The shutdown led to several attacks on government and rights holders' websites including Universal Music and CBC.com, with hacking activist group Anonymous claiming responsibility.