The Asia Video Industry Association’s Coalition Against Piracy marked the success of the latest blocking orders by the Singapore High Court. The latest 20 illegal streaming sites and associated domains brings Singapore’s total to nearly 300.
According to AVIA, The Order is the latest in an ongoing campaign by CAP members, BBC Studios, LaLiga, the Premier League and TVB International, that has seen the blocking of hundreds of illegal streaming sites that were offering access to some of the most sought-after content including premium sports, drama and entertainment.
“It’s no coincidence that after almost ten years of blocking pirate sites, the research shows that Singapore has one of the lowest piracy rates in the region, but given the inherent time and cost inefficiencies in the system we can only imagine how much more effective it could be if rights holders were able to block more often and at a higher volume,” said CAP’s General Manager, Matthew Cheetham, who noted that Singapore consumers are increasingly well informed about the risks associated with accessing illegal content online.
Site blocking continues to have multiple positive benefits, according to new research conducted for AVIA by YouGov. The research shows that in addition to Singapore having the highest consumer awareness in the region of the dangers and risks associated with accessing illegal content online, it also has the highest rates of subscription to legitimate content channels.
Further reading
Singapore contines to lead the way in Asia in judicial blocking of illegal streaming sites, but more can be done. Press release. April 17, 2023. Asia Video Industry Association
Why it matters
“In blocking access to these illegal streaming sites, Courts are not only protecting the rights of content holders, but just as importantly continuing to educate and protect consumers who are often unknowingly exposed to viruses and malicious content when accessing illegal sites, including malware that can access a user’s sensitive data such as banking details,” said Mr. Cheetham
