What's being assumed here is that the suit is legit and has the right person. Frequently, these suits aren't and don't. They get settled out of court for $2000 (literally) and the RIAA makes your little problem go away.

"Nice computer you've got here. Be a shame if someone took the house around it..."

It's extortion, plain and simple.

I am the Doctor, and THIS... is my SPOON!