Marking the launch of the United Kingdom Intellectual Property Office’s IP Enforcement Strategy, Audiovisual Anti-Piracy Alliance (AAPA) and the IPO organised jointly a seminar on illegal streaming and the sale of illicit devices and to explore possible solutions.
With a focus on the supply chain the scale, scope and impact of this growing form of audiovisual piracy were discussed by participants from government, law enforcement and the industry.
The seminar represented a further stage in a co-operative effort between AAPA and the IPO to stem the demand for, and flow of, devices (mainly manufactured in China), which facilitate unauthorised access to audiovisual content. Discussion focussed on how to make enforcement action more effective and efficient through the co-ordination and collection of evidence, collaboration and working across borders. The shared goal is to demonstrate to countries which are the source of this form of piracy that illegal streaming and the sale of illicit devices will not be tolerated.
“Illegal streaming is emerging as the main threat to the audiovisual industry,” said Sheila Cassells, executive director, of AAPA.
“This harms not only the creative industries but also deprives governments of tax revenues and generates substantial revenues for organised criminals. Illegal streaming is a global problem, which requires a global response and AAPA works with Interpol and Europol on this issue. However, the activities of those agencies require the close involvement of a Member State and we value the IPO’s commitment to demonstrate leadership in tackling this problem. The seminar represents a further step in our collaboration with the IPO and we will be working with them to develop solutions and to encourage other Member States to adopt this approach.”
“The creative industries are a major UK asset and the IPO is committed to ensuring their hard work is protected,” added Ros Lynch, copyright and IP enforcement director at the UK IPO.
“While increasing digitisation brings about many benefits to the UK economy, it also provides opportunities for infringers. Disrupting the manufacture and distribution of set-top boxes designed to stream illegal content is a major priority. Working together with consumers, right holders and our partners in law enforcement we will continue to disrupt and track down IP crime wherever it takes place.”
