Washington, D.C.
Ebay Inc. has been sued for the alleged listing for sale of bootleg or pirate recordings
by the auction site's users, in violation of a California statute, Federal Filings reported Tuesday (11/16/99).
Ebay said in its quarterly report filed Monday with the Securities and Exchange Commission
that the suit was filed in San Francisco Supior Court by Randall Stoner on behalf of the
general public.
The suit contends that listing of the recordings of Ebay's users violates California's
Business and Professions Code and seeks injunctive relifef, restitution and legal fees,
according to the quarterly report.
Ebay filed a general denial of the complaint, seeking its dismissal, which the court sustained.
The plaintiff then filed an amended complaint and discovery has begun, according to the filing.
Ebay said in the filing that it has meritorious defenses to the suit and intends to defend itself
vigorously.
Ebay also noted in the filing that even if successful, this defense could be costly and,
"if we were to lose this lawsuit, our business could be harmed."