Internet got disconnected because of downloading torrent software... wtf?

Has anyone had this happen to them before? I have Qwest and I guess they disconnected my internet because I downloaded copy-right material. I have been download stuff from the internet for years and never had a problem. I don't see how sharing files with other people is illegal, it's not like I make a copy of it and then try to sell it. Anyways I don't really know what my question is, maybe just want to know if anyone has had this happen to them and if there is any way around it.