Global IPTV Piracy Crackdown: Legal Warning for Users

Legal OTT streaming services, with the assistance of enforcement agencies in India and the United States, have dismantled a major global IPTV piracy operation. This illegal network was streaming premium Indian and international content without proper licensing. The syndicate used brand names like Boss IPTV, Guru IPTV, and UltrastreamTV to operate.

These illicit IPTV services were broadcasting content from top broadcasters such as Star, Sony, Zee, Sun Network, Aha, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and various international sports leagues. They offered these services at low prices through Android and Linux-based set-top boxes and smart TV apps. Aggressive promotion occurred on websites, blogs, and social media platforms.

Risks of Using Pirated Services

While users might have thought they were getting a bargain, investigators uncovered a darker side. Many of these platforms were collecting sensitive user data like credit card information and passwords. This data could be used for cybercrime, tax fraud, or even terrorism-linked financial scams.

The pirates also broadcasted US local channels such as ABC, PBS, CBS, and NBC alongside content from Amazon and Netflix. This case extends beyond Indian content to include international material. Therefore, Indians using pirated services face additional risks as these activities involve more than just illegal broadcasting.

Financial Impact on Broadcasters

Major OTT streaming platforms estimate that South Asian broadcasters lose between $200–$300 million annually due to illegal IPTV services. In 2021, YuppTV took action against piracy leading to the arrest of six individuals associated with Boss IPTV in Faridabad.

The fight against piracy has now reached a global scale. Major OTT streaming platforms filed a lawsuit in the US represented by Goldstein Law Group LLC. They accused the syndicate of criminal copyright violations under 18 U.S.C. § 2319.

Legal Consequences

According to Goldstein Law Group LLC., using pirated IPTV services could lead to serious criminal charges in the US. Non-citizens might even face deportation since such crimes fall under Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) jurisdiction.

This situation serves as a warning: using illegal streaming services can lead to severe legal consequences. Switching to legal platforms is advisable to avoid potential repercussions.