October 29, 2018

The IPO explains that media streaming boxes are legal until they are altered with apps or add-ons that allow users to access “paid for” material, such as subscription TV, premium sports channels and new films, for free. The IPO estimates that around one in four may not be paying for what they are watching.

The IPO has published its response to its call for views on illicit streaming. It says that recent prosecutions demonstrate that the current laws are working.

However, in addition to the law, the IPO says it is taking a range of additional steps to counter the problem. It has already delivered a public education campaign in conjunction with Crimestoppers and industry stakeholders to highlight the risks associated with watching content using illicit streaming devices, while also highlighting the importance of tackling the organised criminal networks behind much of this activity.

In addition, the IPO has confirmed that it will:

• consider the evidence for and potential impact of administrative site blocking (as opposed to requiring a High Court injunction in every case), as well as identifying the mechanisms through which administrative site blocking could be introduced;
• work to identify disruptions that may be applied at other points in the supply chain, for example App developers, and further develop its understanding of the effect of new generation smart TVs on how this infringement occurs;
• undertake research into consumer attitudes/motivations towards the use of illicit streaming devices in order to develop more effective strategies for reducing levels of use; and
• deliver up to date training to Trading Standards officers via the established IP in Practice courses.

The Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PIPCU) will continue to prioritise resources in this area, taking appropriate action against those traders who seek to encourage copyright infringement through the sale of IPTV boxes. To read the response in full, click here.