As the new 2025/26 season kicks off, LALIGA launched a new consumer awareness campaign to combat audiovisual piracy, the biggest threat to the sports and entertainment industry.
Spanish football clubs alone lose an estimated €600–700 million annually due to illegal broadcasts. But the damage goes beyond financial loss. It is estimated that more than 50% of online viruses are linked to pirated content or illegal download platforms, posing a serious threat to fans who access illegal broadcasts through unauthorized sources.
Consumer awareness campaign
The landing page for the consumer awareness campaign begins with a video that shows a still frame saying “Over 50% of viruses detected online come from pirate services.”
The landing page defines piracy and how to detect it, and the types of risks that piracy exposes consumers to; including malware financial fraud, security flaws and legal consequences from using illegal networks.
“By choosing to use illegal platforms, consumers are exposed to many threats that can compromise not only device security but also their personal information, privacy, and even bank accounts. On average, a user now needs seven clicks to start playing a specific title on pirate sites, whereas the previous average was four clicks. Each click represents an added risk for the consumer,” says LaLiga.
Campaign resources
“You get pirated football. They get you.” Landing page.*** Consumer awareness campaign. Accessed August 20, 2025. LaLiga (Campeonato Nacional de Liga de Primera División, Spain).
LALIGA warns of the dangers of illegal broadcasts: “You get pirated football, they get you.” Press release. August 11, 2025. LaLiga
Why it matters
LaLiga says that Spain remains one of the top countries in Europe for pirated audiovisual content consumption, especially among younger audiences, according to data from the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO). LALIGA urges fans to enjoy the 2025/26 season through official channels only, as legal streaming options ensure a safe, high-quality viewing experience free from the risks that come with piracy.
Criminal networks behind illegal streams can gain access to sensitive personal data such as postal addresses, emails, bank information, and even device control. Accessing pirated content is like leaving the front door open to hackers. The risks range from identity theft and financial fraud to device hijacking and total privacy loss. Fans who watch illegal broadcasts may become victims without even realizing it.
*** LaLiga links from here to Piracy Monitor if you scroll down!
