Via BBC:

Japan-based internet users who download copyright infringing files face up to two years in prison or fines of up to two million yen ($25,700) after a change to the law.

Such activity has been illegal since 2010, but until now had not invoked the penalties.

It follows a lobbying campaign by country’s music industry.

Whoa. The article goes on to point out that theoretically, the charge could apply to a person with a single illegal download. You can bet that if the Japanese start seeing a significant decrease in illegal downloads, other countries will follow their lead. Be careful out there. [AlLindstrom]