Consumer Confidential: Music downloads, Megaupload, free tax prep

Here’s your 60-minute-man Monday roundup of consumer news from around the Web:

–The music industry isn’t satisfied, not one bit. A report by the global music industry lobbying group says growth in digital revenues remains stuck in the single figures. The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry blames piracy and government sluggishness for the failure of online business to take off. While the group’s report says that digital revenue has risen by 8% over the past year, one analyst says that isn’t nearly enough to make up for the decline in sales elsewhere. Independent media analyst Mark Mulligan says that in Britain and the United States, “we’ve already lost half of the music market in the past 10 years.” I wonder if the relatively high price of most online music has something to do with this. (Associated Press)

–Speaking of which, Kim Dotcom, the detained founder of the file-sharing website Megaupload, insists he’s innocent and poses no flight risk. Dotcom, 37, appeared at a bail hearing at a New Zealand court after police raided his mansion Friday and removed him from a safe room where they say he barricaded himself. Police arrested Dotcom and three Megaupload employees on U.S. accusations they facilitated millions of illegal downloads of films, music and other content that cost copyright holders at least $500 million in lost revenue. Extradition proceedings against them could last a year or more. Dotcom’s lawyer said his client denies all charges. (Associated Press)

–Tax time is almost here. If you’d like to use the IRS’ Free File service, it’s now open for business. As the name implies, Free File is a free tax-preparation service that taxpayers can use online. According to the Internal Revenue Service, more 33 million returns have been filed through Free File since its debut. Everyone can use Free File, but there’s an income limit for using the free tax preparation software: You must have an adjusted gross income of $57,000 or less. Meanwhile, the electronic versions of the IRS’ paper forms have no income restrictions. The only difference is, you have to prepare your taxes yourself. (ConsumerAffairs.com)