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  11. <title>TorrentFreak</title>
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  13. <link>https://torrentfreak.com/</link>
  14. <description>Breaking File-sharing, Copyright and Privacy News</description>
  15. <lastBuildDate>Tue, 26 Aug 2025 18:03:29 +0000</lastBuildDate>
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  23. <title>LaLiga Threatens Cloudflare Customer For Using an IP Address Linked to Piracy</title>
  24. <link>https://torrentfreak.com/laliga-threatens-cloudflare-customer-for-using-an-ip-address-linked-to-piracy-250826/</link>
  25. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Andy Maxwell]]></dc:creator>
  26. <pubDate>Tue, 26 Aug 2025 17:56:42 +0000</pubDate>
  27. <category><![CDATA[Anti-Piracy]]></category>
  28. <category><![CDATA[Site Blocking]]></category>
  29. <category><![CDATA[Cloudflare]]></category>
  30. <category><![CDATA[iptv]]></category>
  31. <category><![CDATA[LaLiga]]></category>
  32. <category><![CDATA[piracy]]></category>
  33. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://torrentfreak.com/?p=271412</guid>
  34.  
  35. <description><![CDATA[<p>As part of its ongoing war against IPTV piracy, LaLiga reportedly sent a message to a Cloudflare customer on Monday, despite him having absolutely no connection to the piracy LaLiga is attempting to stop. The man was warned that if he doesn't 'require' Cloudflare to prevent piracy on the shared IP address allocated to his blog, LaLiga will assume a failure to meet his obligations concerning the commission of crimes. Those who cooperate with criminals, even by inaction, face criminal and civil action, the message warned.</p>
  36. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  37. ]]></description>
  38. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/laligatelefonblock.png" alt="laligatelefonblock" width="300" height="226" class="alignright size-full wp-image-264204" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/laligatelefonblock.png 500w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/laligatelefonblock-300x226.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/laligatelefonblock-150x113.png 150w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/laligatelefonblock-200x150.png 200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />The new football season is underway in Spain&#8217;s top professional football league which means LaLiga is also back at work doing whatever it can to block illegal match streams. </p>
  39. <p>The final few months of last season were marred by a bitter dispute between LaLiga and Cloudflare, triggered by the former obtaining unprecedented authorization to block Cloudflare IP addresses used for piracy, and then doing so <em>en masse</em>. The resulting fallout was felt by businesses and internet users throughout Spain.</p>
  40. <h2>Innocent Cloudflare Customers Can&#8217;t Catch a Break</h2>
  41. <p>Cloudflare IP addresses are shared, meaning that hundreds or potentially thousands of users (often websites) can operate from the same IP address at the same time. When LaLiga instructs local ISPs to block a Cloudflare IP addresses, to prevent piracy, that invariably leads to large numbers of innocent Cloudflare users being blocked too, despite having no involvement in LaLiga content piracy.</p>
  42. <p>With no evidence to suggest peace has broken out between LaLiga and Cloudflare, blocking of the latter&#8217;s IP addresses resumed at the start of the season. Inevitably that means renewed blocking of innocent parties, but according to data reviewed by TorrentFreak, some measures may have been put in place to limit how long IP addresses stay blocked. </p>
  43. <p>While that does little to reduce the number of collateral damage incidents, shortening blocking time reduces the harm suffered by people who have zero connections to online piracy. The caveat here, unfortunately, is an apparent difference of opinion on what constitutes a &#8220;connection&#8221; to online piracy. </p>
  44. <h2>The Blog of Lazarus</h2>
  45. <p>After spending just a couple of minutes on <a href="https://elblogdelazaro.org/pages/about/">Lazarus&#8217;s Blog</a>, one gets the impression that the author not only appreciates technology, but also understands the importance of <a href="https://elblogdelazaro.org/por-qu%C3%A9-comparto-p%C3%BAblicamente-las-estad%C3%ADsticas-del-blog/">transparency</a> and <a href="https://elblogdelazaro.org/la-importancia-de-la-netiqueta-y-el-respeto-en-la-creaci%C3%B3n-de-contenido/">netiquette</a>, as positive contributors to the online experience.</p>
  46. <p>As an avid user of Cloudflare who <a href="https://elblogdelazaro.org/configurando-t%C3%BAneles-de-cloudflare-e-immich-para-utilizar-oauth/">takes</a> time to share his <a href="https://elblogdelazaro.org/instalaci%C3%B3n-y-configuraci%C3%B3n-de-cloudflare-tunnels-en-unraid/">experiences</a> with others, a message forwarded to his account by Cloudflare on Monday can only have come as a complete surprise, as his post on Mastodon reveals <em>(translated from Spanish)</em>.</p>
  47. <p><center><img decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/mastadon-laliga-1.png" alt="mastodon-laliga" width="587" height="199" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271432" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/mastadon-laliga-1.png 587w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/mastadon-laliga-1-300x102.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/mastadon-laliga-1-150x51.png 150w" sizes="(max-width: 587px) 100vw, 587px" /></center></p>
  48. <p>A review of the paperwork reveals an extraordinary message containing allegations and assumptions that challenge any reasonable definition of &#8220;connections to piracy&#8221; and the potential for legal liability to be incurred as a result.</p>
  49. <h2>Connection to Piracy: A Cloudflare IP Address</h2>
  50. <p>For Spanish speakers, the original message (in two parts) is available here (<a href="https://files.mastodon.social/media_attachments/files/115/089/434/097/462/010/original/be1831d35ebca69f.png">1</a>,<a href="https://files.mastodon.social/media_attachments/files/115/089/440/017/607/744/original/ff07f99ea0d3e776.png">2</a>). Our unofficial translation appears in the image below:</p>
  51. <p><center><img decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/laliga_warning_blogger.png" alt="laliga_warning_blogger" width="670" height="670" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271417" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/laliga_warning_blogger.png 1300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/laliga_warning_blogger-300x300.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/laliga_warning_blogger-600x600.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/laliga_warning_blogger-150x150.png 150w" sizes="(max-width: 670px) 100vw, 670px" /></center></p>
  52. <p>The message and the threats it contains largely speak for themselves. They appear to center around an individual&#8217;s use of Cloudflare to protect his personal blog, and an IP address allocated by Cloudflare being abused by an unknown third party to pirate LaLiga content.</p>
  53. <p>Attributing ownership of Cloudflare&#8217;s IP address to the blogger, before suggesting that the message puts the recipient on notice of infringement of which he is now fully aware, is bizarre. Yet still not as bizarre as conflating legal use of a shared resource with someone else&#8217;s independent abuse, and then implying a responsibility to compel Cloudflare to act on someone else&#8217;s behalf.</p>
  54. <p>The suggestion that a failure to act in the manner described is a dereliction of duty, and tantamount to cooperation with unknown third parties in various unknown crimes, is baffling. That the foundation of the alleged offense relies on association by IP address, allocated by an intermediary over which the blogger exercises no control, seems precarious at best.</p>
  55. <p>Whether Cloudflare will intervene is up for debate but for the operator of the Lazarus blog, it&#8217;s possible that targeting Cloudflare users is one of the few opportunities left.</p>
  56. <p>&#8220;Well, the league clearly knows how #cloudflare works, but the only way they have, for now, is through #cloudflare users themselves, to pressure them to audit and prosecute those who pirate their football or for us to morally stop using their services,&#8221; he <a href="https://mastodon.social/@elblogdelazaro/115089781274776805">wrote</a> on Mastodon. </p>
  57. <p>&#8220;If there&#8217;s football on 5 days a week and they block your website, we won&#8217;t say anything about it, and neither will we say anything about the judges who allow it.</p>
  58. <p>&#8220;It&#8217;s the last attempt by #laliga to get #cloudflare to jump through their hoop, but if they do, prepare for what comes next.&#8221;</p>
  59. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  60. ]]></content:encoded>
  61. </item>
  62. <item>
  63. <title>Sci-Hub Blocked in India, Founder Tells Plaintiffs to Expect Disappointment</title>
  64. <link>https://torrentfreak.com/sci-hub-blocked-in-india-founder-tells-plaintiffs-to-expect-disappoinment-250826/</link>
  65. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Andy Maxwell]]></dc:creator>
  66. <pubDate>Tue, 26 Aug 2025 08:39:56 +0000</pubDate>
  67. <category><![CDATA[Anti-Piracy]]></category>
  68. <category><![CDATA[Site Blocking]]></category>
  69. <category><![CDATA[American Chemical Society]]></category>
  70. <category><![CDATA[Delhi HIgh Court]]></category>
  71. <category><![CDATA[Elsevier]]></category>
  72. <category><![CDATA[india]]></category>
  73. <category><![CDATA[sci-hub]]></category>
  74. <category><![CDATA[wiley]]></category>
  75. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://torrentfreak.com/?p=271371</guid>
  76.  
  77. <description><![CDATA[<p>A 2020 lawsuit filed by publishers at the High Court in Delhi targeted the infamous shadow library, Sci-Hub. The aim was to have the site blocked by ISPs, which triggered a strong response from academics, scientists, teachers and students, who argued that free access to knowledge is vital in India. Close to five years later, the Court has sided with the publishers. Sci-Hub's founder informed them via email that the results of blocking may be disappointing.</p>
  78. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  79. ]]></description>
  80. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/sci-block-s.png" alt="sci-block-s" width="300" height="316" class="alignright size-full wp-image-271383" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/sci-block-s.png 450w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/sci-block-s-300x315.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/sci-block-s-143x150.png 143w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />A multi-year legal campaign by academic and scientific publishers continued in 2020 with a lawsuit filed at the High Court in Delhi.</p>
  81. <p>Once again the target was Sci-Hub and site founder Alexandra Elbakyan, and by naming local ISPs as defendants, Elsevier, Wiley, and American Chemical Society aimed to have the shadow library <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/sci-hub-libgen-face-isp-blocking-in-india-after-publishers-file-high-court-complaint-201227/">blocked nationwide in India</a>. </p>
  82. <p>The publishers left no stone unturned in their 2,169-page complaint, carefully following in the footsteps of universally <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/pirate-bay-rarbg-1337x-torrentz2-to-be-permanently-blocked-in-india-190412/">successful cases</a> that helped to create the framework for pirate site blocking in India. At least on paper, the Sci-Hub lawsuit stood out no more than any other. Dozens of similar cases had led to the blocking of thousands of pirate site domains in previous years, with each passing by relatively unnoticed.</p>
  83. <h2>Blocking Sci-Hub Would Be Bad For India, Critics Feared</h2>
  84. <p>The action against Sci-Hub triggered an unusually strong response, solely based on the type of copyrighted content made available on the platform. From academics and scientists, to teachers and their students, the consensus was that unauthorized access to scientific knowledge via pirated copies of the publishers&#8217; works should be handled otherwise than in accordance with established copyright law. </p>
  85. <p>Intervention applications by scientists and other interested parties stressed the importance of open access to scientific research. They claimed that the publishers were making excessive profits from elite institutions with the means to pay, effectively denying access to those who simply could not. Similar claims had been made in the past elsewhere in the world, but despite the occasional sympathetic reception, none made any ground in the face of undeniable infringement on a massive scale.</p>
  86. <p>Yet in January 2021, calls to immediately block or remove infringing links from Sci-Hub were rejected by the High Court in Delhi. The judge acknowledged that since the case addressed an &#8220;<a href="https://torrentfreak.com/judge-sci-hub-blocking-case-important-for-science-community-representations-will-be-heard-210107/">issue of public importance</a>&#8221; a two-week extension was appropriate. Urgent action to deny access to infringing content was deemed unnecessary since the alleged infringement had been ongoing since 2011. </p>
  87. <p>Interested parties were invited to weigh-in with submissions on what was already a sensitive case and was about to become even more controversial.</p>
  88. <h2>A Year of Controversy</h2>
  89. <p>Seemingly out of nowhere, Sci-Hub&#8217;s nine-year-old Twitter account was <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/sci-hub-founder-criticises-sudden-twitter-ban-over-over-counterfeit-content-210108/">suddenly banned</a> in early 2021, despite never linking to copyrighted content. </p>
  90. <p>In February, the publishers obtained a <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/sci-hub-elsevier-and-springer-nature-obtain-uk-isp-blocking-order-210218/">blocking order against Sci-Hub</a> in the UK, targeting existing domains and any others used in the future. At the time of writing, over 200 domains containing the term &#8216;sci-hub&#8217; have been blocked under that order, despite a <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/uk-police-warn-students-not-to-use-sci-hub-publishers-promote-it-210322/">warning from UK police</a> in March 2021 which advised students not to use the platform.</p>
  91. <p>Two months later, with site founder Alexandra Elbakyan seemingly under continuous pressure, she announced that the <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/fbi-has-gained-access-to-sci-hub-founders-apple-account-email-claims-210513/">FBI had gained access</a> to her Apple account, with confirmation provided in an email from Apple itself. </p>
  92. <p><center><a href="https://torrentfreak.com/images/sci-hub-apple-email.png"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/sci-hub-apple-email.png" alt="Sci-Hub Apple email" width="550" height="447" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-204243" /></a></center></p>
  93. <p>No surprise for Elbakyan, of course. The US Justice Department reportedly began investigating her in 2019, claiming that she “may” have been working with Russian intelligence to “steal U.S. military secrets from defense contractors.”</p>
  94. <p>At least in public, none of these events developed into anything bigger than their initial reports. Yet back in India, an agreement between Elbakyan and the publishers in late 2020 would eventually lead to a fatal undermining of the case and, several years later, a win for the publishers.</p>
  95. <h2>Agreement: No More Infringing Uploads to Sci-Hub</h2>
  96. <p>During a hearing on December 24, 2020, counsel for Elbakyan reportedly offered assurances that no new copyrighted articles or publications owned by the plaintiffs, would be uploaded to or made available by Sci-Hub moving forward. How far forward appears to be in dispute. </p>
  97. <p>As far as the plaintiffs and the High Court are concerned, the agreement remains in effect. Sci-Hub suggests that it viewed the agreement as temporary, to be continued only until the High Court issued a decision in the main case, which has dragged on and on.</p>
  98. <p>In four months time, the case will be roughly five years old, which is highly irregular when compared to similar cases, even after factoring in additional time to account for a defended case, which is admittedly unusual in itself. Nevertheless, court notifications have at times been difficult to fathom. Lengthy delays of two or three months have been introduced for reasons such as &#8216;counsel can&#8217;t make it today&#8217; or is &#8216;doing something else this afternoon.&#8217; </p>
  99. <p>No signs indicate that was a problem for the court, or indeed, anyone else. However, after several years, the main issue of blocking Sci-Hub was eventually decided on August 19, partly on facts that have been available for years, even before the filing of the current case in 2020.</p>
  100. <h2>Violation of December 2020 Agreement</h2>
  101. <p>The plaintiffs had been monitoring Sci-Hub and a &#8216;sister site&#8217; called Sci-Net for compliance with the 2020 agreement and recently informed the court of numerous violations. The plaintiffs contacted Elbakayan about the issue and received the following response:</p>
  102. <p><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/Sci-Hub-response-to-violations.png" alt="Sci-Hub response to violations" width="650" height="424" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271389" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/Sci-Hub-response-to-violations.png 738w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/Sci-Hub-response-to-violations-300x196.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/Sci-Hub-response-to-violations-600x391.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/Sci-Hub-response-to-violations-150x98.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /></center></p>
  103. <p>Having detected a &#8220;lack of regard for the legal process&#8221; in the above response and confirming violations of the 2020 agreement, Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora examined whether the term &#8220;rogue website&#8221; applies to Sci-Hub. </p>
  104. <p>The Judge considered characteristics including &#8220;a blatant disregard for copyright law&#8221; and the fact that blocking orders have already been issued against the site in 11 countries.</p>
  105. <p>Concluding that both Sci-Hub and Sci-Net qualify for &#8220;rogue&#8221; status, the judge noted that Sci-Hub&#8217;s founder is <em>prima facie</em> guilty of contempt.</p>
  106. <blockquote><p><em>Defendant no. 1 [Elbakyan] has elected not to appear and failed to give appropriate instructions to her counsel, who represents her in these proceedings. Therefore, the intention of defendant no. 1 is neither to participate and nor to defend herself in these proceedings.</p>
  107. <p>The fact that defendant no. 1 is a foreign national seems to make her believe that she is insulated from legal consequences of the violation of her undertaking dated 24.12.2020. However, in these given facts, the Court would have to take appropriate measures for ensuring that defendant no. 1’s wilful actions [of violation] do not see fruition within the jurisdiction of the Court.</em></p></blockquote>
  108. <p>After close to five years, the judge ordered the blocking of several Sci-Hub and Sci-Net domains (www.sci-hub.ru, www.sci-hub.se, www.sci-hub.st, www.sci-net.xyz) by local ISPs, describing the decision as &#8220;a necessary and proportionate enforcement measure.&#8221;</p>
  109. <p>From the comments in her response, it seems reasonable to assume that Alexandra Elbakyan will respond to the blocking measures accordingly. The case is listed for further proceedings on December 1, 2025.</p>
  110. <p><em>The High Court of Delhi&#8217;s decision and blocking order is available <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/images/IA-No-2025-in-CS-COMM-NO-572-OF-2020-Elsevier-vs.-Elbakyan-High-Court-Delhi-ORDER-250811.pdf">here</a> (pdf)</em></p>
  111. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  112. ]]></content:encoded>
  113. </item>
  114. <item>
  115. <title>&#8216;Leaked&#8217; Prerelease Films Were Shared on Vimeo by Industry Insiders</title>
  116. <link>https://torrentfreak.com/leaked-prerelease-films-were-shared-on-vimeo-by-industry-insiders/</link>
  117. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Ernesto Van der Sar]]></dc:creator>
  118. <pubDate>Mon, 25 Aug 2025 12:06:54 +0000</pubDate>
  119. <category><![CDATA[Piracy]]></category>
  120. <category><![CDATA[leaks]]></category>
  121. <category><![CDATA[screeners]]></category>
  122. <category><![CDATA[unreleased]]></category>
  123. <category><![CDATA[Vimeo]]></category>
  124. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://torrentfreak.com/?p=270927</guid>
  125.  
  126. <description><![CDATA[<p>Screener and pre-release copies of numerous films that leaked online recently were not the result of a sophisticated hack. New evidence reveals that several of these films were already publicly accessible for weeks or months previously, after being shared by industry insiders on the video platform Vimeo. </p>
  127. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  128. ]]></description>
  129. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/vimeologo.jpg" alt="vimeo logo" width="300" height="193" class="alignright size-full wp-image-271358" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/vimeologo.jpg 529w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/vimeologo-300x193.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/vimeologo-150x96.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />Earlier this month, we reported that a screener copy of <em>In the Hands of Dante</em> had <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/unreleased-movie-screeners-leak-online-including-a-star-studded-in-the-hand-of-dante/">leaked online from an unknown source</a>. </p>
  130. <p>The unreleased Julian Schnabel film, featuring a star cast, is officially set to premiere at the Venice Film Festival next month. However, pirates got early access.</p>
  131. <p>The same was true for other independent films, including <em>The Best Thing About Christmas</em>, <em>Agon</em>, <em>American Cryptids</em>, <em>Life Is</em>, and <em>Extreme Family</em>, all of which leaked early. What stood out is that several titles had an Italian connection.</p>
  132. <p>The source of the leaks was initially unclear, but new information shared with TorrentFreak shows that many, if not all the leaked films, were already publicly available on video-sharing platform Vimeo long before they appeared on pirate sites. </p>
  133. <h2>Post-production Studio Uploads on Vimeo </h2>
  134. <p>Multiple versions of <em>In the Hand of Dante</em>, using the shorthand &#8220;ITHOD,&#8221; were uploaded to the Vimeo channel of <a href="https://augustuscolor.com/en/">Augustus Color Srl</a>. This is the name of a prominent Italian company specializing in color grading and digital post-production. </p>
  135. <p>The upload dates range from June to October 2024, confirming the films were exposed for the better part of a year before they appeared on pirate sites. The most recent &#8216;edit&#8217; on Vimeo is identical in length compared to the copy that leaked on pirate sites and also comes with a screener watermark.  </p>
  136. <p><center><em>ITHOD</em></center><br /><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/ithod.jpg" alt="ithod" width="600" height="470" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-270989" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/ithod.jpg 1391w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/ithod-300x235.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/ithod-600x470.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/ithod-150x117.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></center></p>
  137. <p>This wasn&#8217;t the only film posted to the account. Augustus Color has over 1,000 videos on their Vimeo account which has been in use for more than seven years. The account uses the logo of the studio and also posted the official promotional reel, various edits, and several additional films. </p>
  138. <p><center><em>Augustus Color</em></center><br /><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/augustusvimeo.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="453" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-270987" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/augustusvimeo.jpg 1971w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/augustusvimeo-300x226.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/augustusvimeo-600x453.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/augustusvimeo-150x113.jpg 150w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/augustusvimeo-1536x1160.jpg 1536w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/augustusvimeo-200x150.jpg 200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></center></p>
  139. <p>After some digging, we also found the leaked Agon film on the same Vimeo account. Again, this copy was posted on the video sharing platform long before it appeared on pirate sites, suggesting this is where the leaks originated. The same account also shared many other films that were not posted to pirate sites.</p>
  140. <p>Before publishing, we reached out to Augustus Color, requesting a comment on our findings, but the company did not respond. The company may have been under the impression that these uploads were not publicly accessible, as the official <a href="https://vimeo.com/user39135984/albums/page:1/sort:date">showreel is private</a>.</p>
  141. <h2>There&#8217;s More, Much More</h2>
  142. <p>Not all recently leaked movies could be traced back to this Vimeo account. It&#8217;s a much broader issue. For example, <em>The Best Thing About Christmas</em> screener was also publicly available, posted on Vimeo by the official account weeks before it leaked. </p>
  143. <p>A screenshot from the leak, shown below, notes that it&#8217;s a director&#8217;s cut. The same cut was also posted on Vimeo. </p>
  144. <p><center><em>Producer&#8217;s Cut</em></center><br /><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/christmas-1.jpg" alt="christmas" width="600" height="308" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-271349" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/christmas-1.jpg 1188w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/christmas-1-300x154.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/christmas-1-600x308.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/christmas-1-150x77.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></center></p>
  145. <p>When we reached out to the filmmakers, they informed us that the screener was not meant to be publicly accessible. They believed that it had been shared privately with specific people. That is clearly not the case here. </p>
  146. <p>Similar uploads are common elsewhere on the video platform. A copy of <em>Extreme Family</em> was published in early July by an account linked to a Vietnamese film organization, before it appeared on pirate sites. </p>
  147. <p><center><em>Extreme Family on Vimeo</em></center><br /><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/extremefam.jpg" alt="extreme family" width="600" height="382" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-270991" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/extremefam.jpg 958w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/extremefam-300x191.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/extremefam-600x382.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/extremefam-150x96.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></center></p>
  148. <p>Similarly, a copy of the film <em>American Cryptids</em> was uploaded to Vimeo by a Florida-based industry insider in early August. Soon after, a &#8216;leak&#8217; appeared on pirate sites, days in advance of the official theatrical premiere on Friday, August 15.</p>
  149. <p>The person who shared the <em>American Cryptids</em> film on Vimeo did not respond to our request for comment, but the upload is now password protected. This suggests that it wasn&#8217;t meant to be publicly accessible either.</p>
  150. <p>The more we dig on Vimeo, the more films we find. These include dozens of unreleased films, but also several films that were posted on Vimeo longer ago, before their official releases. These are linked to the accounts of industry insiders, ranging from small production outfits to videographers&#8217; personal accounts.</p>
  151. <p>Without additional comments from the players involved, we don&#8217;t know if these public uploads were the result of a misunderstanding about <a href="https://help.vimeo.com/hc/en-us/articles/12426199699985-Overview-of-video-privacy-settings">Vimeo&#8217;s privacy settings</a> or if there is more to it than that. Whatever the reason, it&#8217;s a bombshell and a wake-up call all the same.</p>
  152. <p><strong>Update August 26:</strong> Augustus Color <a href="http://Augustus Color">deleted</a> its Vimeo account. </p>
  153. <p><em>&#8212;</p>
  154. <p>Note: we privately tested the privacy setting on Vimeo videos and that appears to work as intended. </em></p>
  155. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  156. ]]></content:encoded>
  157. </item>
  158. <item>
  159. <title>Top 10 Most Pirated Movies of The Week – 08/25/2025</title>
  160. <link>https://torrentfreak.com/top-10-most-torrented-pirated-movies/</link>
  161. <comments>https://torrentfreak.com/top-10-most-torrented-pirated-movies/#respond</comments>
  162. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Ernesto Van der Sar]]></dc:creator>
  163. <pubDate>Sun, 24 Aug 2025 23:09:40 +0000</pubDate>
  164. <category><![CDATA[DVDrip]]></category>
  165. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://torrentfreak.com/?p=186926</guid>
  166.  
  167. <description><![CDATA[<p>Every week we take a close look at the most pirated movies on torrent sites. What are pirates downloading? 'Superman' tops the chart, followed by 'Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning'. 'F1: The Movie' completes the top three.</p>
  168. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  169. ]]></description>
  170. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/superman-300x190.jpg" alt="superman" width="300" height="190" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-271109" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/superman-300x190.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/superman-150x95.jpg 150w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/superman.jpg 485w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />The data for our weekly download chart is estimated by TorrentFreak, and is for informational and educational reference only.</p>
  171. <p>Downloading content without permission is copyright infringement. These torrent download statistics are only meant to provide further insight into piracy trends. All data are gathered from public resources. </p>
  172. <p>This week we have four newcomers on the list. &#8220;Superman&#8221; is the most shared title. </p>
  173. <h2>The most torrented movies for the week ending on August 25 are:</h2>
  174. <table class="css hover">
  175. <thead>
  176. <tr>
  177. <th width="12%"><strong>Movie Rank</strong></th>
  178. <th width="15%"><strong>Rank last week</strong></th>
  179. <th><strong>Movie name</strong></th>
  180. <th width="18%"><strong>IMDb Rating / Trailer</strong></th>
  181. </tr>
  182. </thead>
  183. <tfoot>
  184. <tr>
  185. <td colspan="4">Most downloaded movies via torrent sites</td>
  186. </tr>
  187. </tfoot>
  188. <p><body></p>
  189. <tr>
  190. <td><strong>1</strong></td>
  191. <td>(1)</td>
  192. <td>Superman</td>
  193. <td><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5950044/">7.7</a> / <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ox8ZLF6cGM0">trailer</a></td>
  194. </tr>
  195. <tr>
  196. <td><strong>2</strong></td>
  197. <td>(&#8230;)</td>
  198. <td>Mission: Impossible &#8211; The Final Reckoning</td>
  199. <td><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9603208/">7.3</a> / <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fsQgc9pCyDU">trailer</a></td>
  200. </tr>
  201. <tr>
  202. <td><strong>3</strong></td>
  203. <td>(&#8230;)</td>
  204. <td>F1: The Movie</td>
  205. <td><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt16311594/">7.8</a> / <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=69ffwl-8pCU">trailer</a></td>
  206. </tr>
  207. <tr>
  208. <td><strong>4</strong></td>
  209. <td>(2)</td>
  210. <td>Jurassic World: Rebirth</td>
  211. <td><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt31036941/">6.0</a> / <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jan5CFWs9ic">trailer</a></td>
  212. </tr>
  213. <tr>
  214. <td><strong>5</strong></td>
  215. <td>(3)</td>
  216. <td>28 Years Later</td>
  217. <td><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10548174/">6.9</a> / <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mcvLKldPM08">trailer</a></td>
  218. </tr>
  219. <tr>
  220. <td><strong>6</strong></td>
  221. <td>(4)</td>
  222. <td>How to Train Your Dragon</td>
  223. <td><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt26743210/">8.0</a> / <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=22w7z_lT6YM">trailer</a></td>
  224. </tr>
  225. <tr>
  226. <td><strong>7</strong></td>
  227. <td>(&#8230;)</td>
  228. <td>The Bad Guys 2</td>
  229. <td><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt30017619/">7.1</a> / <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HvLHYox_Vq8">trailer</a></td>
  230. </tr>
  231. <tr>
  232. <td><strong>8</strong></td>
  233. <td>(&#8230;)</td>
  234. <td>Elio</td>
  235. <td><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4900148/">6.9</a> / <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ETVi5_cnnaE">trailer</a></td>
  236. </tr>
  237. <tr>
  238. <td><strong>9</strong></td>
  239. <td>(6)</td>
  240. <td>Thunderbolts</td>
  241. <td><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt20969586/">5.8</a> / <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hUUszE29jS0">trailer</a></td>
  242. </tr>
  243. <tr>
  244. <td><strong>10</strong></td>
  245. <td>(8)</td>
  246. <td>Sinners</td>
  247. <td><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt31193180/">8.1</a> / <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKGxHflevuk">trailer</a></td>
  248. </tr>
  249. <p></body></table>
  250. <style>.embed-container { position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; overflow: hidden; max-width: 100%; } .embed-container iframe, .embed-container object, .embed-container embed { position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; }</style>
  251. <div class='embed-container'><iframe src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ox8ZLF6cGM0' frameborder='0' allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
  252. <p>Note: We also publish an updating archive of all the list of <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/most-pirated-movies-of-2025/">weekly most torrented movies lists</a>.</p>
  253. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  254. ]]></content:encoded>
  255. <wfw:commentRss>https://torrentfreak.com/top-10-most-torrented-pirated-movies/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  256. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  257. </item>
  258. <item>
  259. <title>Is 4chan the Perfect &#8216;Pirate Bay&#8217; Poster Child to Justify Wider UK Site-Blocking?</title>
  260. <link>https://torrentfreak.com/uk-govt-finds-ideal-pirate-bay-poster-boy-to-sell-blocking-of-non-pirate-sites-250824/</link>
  261. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Andy Maxwell]]></dc:creator>
  262. <pubDate>Sun, 24 Aug 2025 07:30:48 +0000</pubDate>
  263. <category><![CDATA[Opinion Articles]]></category>
  264. <category><![CDATA[Site Blocking]]></category>
  265. <category><![CDATA[4chan]]></category>
  266. <category><![CDATA[online safety act]]></category>
  267. <category><![CDATA[site blocking]]></category>
  268. <category><![CDATA[The Pirate Bay]]></category>
  269. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://torrentfreak.com/?p=271104</guid>
  270.  
  271. <description><![CDATA[<p>In light of increasing pressure on free speech in the UK, new site blocking powers under the Online Safety Act are a cause for concern. The UK may need a Pirate Bay-style poster boy to justify blocking of non-pirate sites, just as the Pirate Bay was used to justify pirate site blocking 15 years ago. After being threatened by Ofcom, the infamous 4chan appeared to swallow the bait this week. A question: who has who on the hook?</p>
  272. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  273. ]]></description>
  274. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/trollfac-uk.png" alt="" width="300" height="188" class="alignright size-full wp-image-271257" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/trollfac-uk.png 724w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/trollfac-uk-300x188.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/trollfac-uk-600x376.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/trollfac-uk-150x94.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />The UK&#8217;s Online Safety Act (OSA) claims to protect children but has faced fierce criticism for censoring everything from legitimate news reporting from war zones, to critical discussion of the Act itself.</p>
  275. <p>There are many problems, not least a requirement for adults in the UK to prove their identity when accessing sites meeting criteria dictated by Ofcom. Large sites, many in the United States, face huge fines for allowing children to access age-inappropriate content. </p>
  276. <p>This means that unverified adults are treated as children with the same content restrictions. Ofcom&#8217;s global threats have led some sites to conclude that the safest option is to ban UK visitors altogether.</p>
  277. <h2>Degraded Internet Experience? Hand Over Your Papers</h2>
  278. <p>Successive UK governments understood there were risks, or rather, they were informed of the risks and went ahead regardless. Whether the internet is any safer is almost impossible to measure; the same can&#8217;t be said for the hours wasted or lost, and the corresponding increases in blood pressure, all thanks to artificial restrictions that punish those who value their privacy. </p>
  279. <p>Guided by the mantra, &#8220;a problem shared is a problem halved&#8221; those who air their OSA grievances in public find themselves presented with a 50/50 ultimatum. According to Peter Kyle, Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, those with an opinion on the legislation fall into two categories: </p>
  280. <p>1) People who want to protect kids and 2) People who side with online predators.</p>
  281. <p><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/osa-predator.png" alt="osa-predator" width="498" height="181" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271185" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/osa-predator.png 498w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/osa-predator-300x109.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/osa-predator-150x55.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 498px) 100vw, 498px" /></center></p>
  282. <h2>You&#8217;re Either With Us, or Against Us</h2>
  283. <p>The imposition of a binary choice is a well-worn political tactic. It aims to shut down dissent and/or discredit the speaker; in this case ordinary members of the public branded &#8216;predator enablers&#8217; by a government minister.</p>
  284. <p>VPN users warranted direct advice; no allegations this time but a suggestion that, just like the unverified, VPN users aren&#8217;t helping to keep children safe.</p>
  285. <p><center><em>Just verify your age (impossible without verifying your identity)</em><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/vpn-uk.png" alt="vpn-uk" width="676" height="192" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271260" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/vpn-uk.png 676w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/vpn-uk-300x85.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/vpn-uk-600x170.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/vpn-uk-150x43.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 676px) 100vw, 676px" /></center></p>
  286. <p>In the event that the above fails to silence the troublemakers, the UK government has recently been discovered filing requests with overseas companies to delete posts made by UK citizens&#8217; criticizing certain aspects of government policy. A United States Department of State <a href="https://www.state.gov/reports/2024-country-reports-on-human-rights-practices/united-kingdom">report</a>, criticizing the UK government for degrading the right to freedom of expression, remains stubbornly accessible. </p>
  287. <h2>No Border Too Distant</h2>
  288. <p>Of course, attempting to silence the State Department would be a truly historic mistake, especially in the wake of comments made by Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley. </p>
  289. <p>Last summer Rowley threatened to &#8220;throw the full force of the law at people&#8221; for unacceptable social media comments, warning that &#8220;whether you’re in this country committing crimes on the streets or committing crimes from further afield online, we will come after you.&#8221;</p>
  290. <p>Widely interpreted as a warning to citizens of the United States, and by extension a direct threat to their constitutional rights, U.S. officials intervened. Congressman Keith Self warned that &#8220;harassing Americans will do absolutely nothing to resolve Great Britain’s internal issues&#8221; and risks damaging the US/UK alliance.</p>
  291. <p>As the United States attempts to introduce home turf pirate site blocking from <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/new-bill-aims-to-block-foreign-pirate-sites-in-the-u-s-250129/">three</a> <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/second-u-s-piracyiblocking-bill-incoming-mpa-google-verizon-meet-to-discuss-250227/">different</a> <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/unveiled-new-u-s-anti-piracy-bill-acpa-proposes-alternative-site-blocking-path/">directions</a>, the UK government is already preparing to take site blocking to the next level. </p>
  292. <p>Thanks to provisions in the Online Safety Act, the UK will soon begin drawing on 15 years of pirate site blocking experiences, to block regular sites that fail to meet their &#8216;obligations&#8217; as laid out <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/online-safety-act-explainer/online-safety-act-explainer">in the legislation</a>.</p>
  293. <h2>Site Blocking For The People?</h2>
  294. <p>Ofcom&#8217;s stated purpose is to serve the public, within duties defined by parliament, independently, using funds provided by the companies in the sectors it regulates. As regulator, Ofcom doesn&#8217;t need permission from the public to start blocking sites, although general approval would likely make the process less controversial. </p>
  295. <p>With the whole world watching and various platforms waiting to see if Ofcom&#8217;s threats of global enforcement can be ignored, there&#8217;s little room for error.</p>
  296. <p>In the current climate any blocking could be perceived as a further restriction of free speech, or even straightforward censorship. The conundrum is how to make site blocking appear less like censorship while satisfying the people that it&#8217;s absolutely necessary. It&#8217;s a big ask, but not impossible.</p>
  297. <h2>The Pirate Bay: Default Poster Child of Piracy Blocking</h2>
  298. <p>In 2012 when the major recording labels obtained their first UK site blocking injunction on copyright grounds, they could&#8217;ve picked a no-name MP3 download site and walked away with an easy win. They picked The Pirate Bay instead, and not just because of the site&#8217;s profile and unparalleled infamy. </p>
  299. <p><strong>#1 Perfect Candidate:</strong> After years in the headlines, The Pirate Bay&#8217;s belligerent stance was well understood and at this point, helpfully predictable. First, there was never any chance of TPB spontaneously complying with copyright law. Since blocking injunctions came to exist for the purpose of tackling uncooperative entities, no candidate was more perfectly matched than the most uncooperative pirate site in the world.</p>
  300. <p><strong>#2 No Appearance? No Win:</strong> The odds of TPB&#8217;s operators making an appearance at the High Court in London were always vanishingly slim, but not just for the reasons one might expect. The site&#8217;s alleged operators were never served in the blocking case, and they never appeared at the hearing. In fact, the site wasn&#8217;t represented in any way, at any stage. </p>
  301. <p><strong>#3 If Done Right, No Defense:</strong> After it was determined that the law didn&#8217;t require TPB&#8217;s operators to be named as defendants, they were effectively excluded from the process. The ISPs were the defendants in this &#8220;no fault&#8221; case, and when they were ordered to block TPB, the terms of the injunction were those previously agreed in discussion with the labels.</p>
  302. <p>Describing this as an &#8216;easy win&#8217; would be a disservice to the work put in by the labels. Nothing was left to chance and the end result spoke for itself. The Pirate Bay and its function needed no introduction, and among supporters and opponents alike, acceptance that it exists for the purpose of infringement on a massive scale, was never in doubt. </p>
  303. <p>That the process was entirely one-sided was neither here nor there. Nobody was surprised by the choice of target or the eventual outcome; in the bigger picture, controversy was kept to a minimum.</p>
  304. <p>Now it&#8217;s Ofcom&#8217;s turn to convince, or simply inform the public, that blocking non-pirate sites benefits everyone. On paper, the notorious  4chan forum ticks all the right boxes and presumably no match for the well-resourced Ofcom.</p>
  305. <h2>4chan: Poster Child of Regular Site Blocking?</h2>
  306. <p>One can only imagine the reaction at 4chan when Ofcom advised that it had new obligations under a foreign law. Section 9(2) of the Act requires certain platforms to undertake an illegal content risk assessment, to assess the risks of users encountering &#8216;illegal&#8217; content on their platforms. </p>
  307. <p>The requirements were <a href="https://www.ofcom.org.uk/siteassets/resources/documents/consultations/category-1-10-weeks/185926-consultation-online-safety-information-guidance/associated-documents/draft-illegal-content-codes-of-practice-for-user-to-user-services.pdf?v=392429">published</a> February 24, 2025, and the ‘Illegal Content Duties’ came into effect on 17 March 2025. On April 14, Ofcom issued a &#8216;formal information notice&#8217; to 4chan demanding a copy of its Illegal Content Risk Assessment and not surprisingly, received no reply.</p>
  308. <p>In common with The Pirate Bay, 4chan&#8217;s non-compliance was <em>almost</em> inevitable. When accompanied by threats to disrupt its business, including by obtaining a court order to compel payment processors, advertisers, and hosting providers to stop doing business, while levying fines of £20,000 per day, non-compliance was effectively guaranteed. In this respect, 4chan&#8217;s response was entirely predictable.</p>
  309. <h2>4chan Unlikely to Attend Court in the UK</h2>
  310. <p>As highlighted previously, cases are more easily won when it&#8217;s understood that the defendant won&#8217;t make an appearance. We can safely assume that 4chan has the same number of tickets to London as it does Illegal Content Risk Assessments so, no, it will not attend. So far, so good then? Not exactly. </p>
  311. <p>Ofcom launched its 4chan investigation on June 10, to determine compliance with various duties under the Online Safety Act. </p>
  312. <p>Did 4chan adequately respond to a statutory information request? Has it conducted and kept a record of its illegal content risk assessment? Is it complying with its safety duties, including protecting its users from &#8216;illegal&#8217; content? </p>
  313. <p>Ofcom currently has no answers to these questions but did learn something new this week. Not only has 4chan hired extremely capable attorneys in response to Ofcom&#8217;s threats, any action by Ofcom will be resisted in the United States under Federal Law. </p>
  314. <h2>New Jurisdiction, Different Ball Game</h2>
  315. <p>Since Ofcom&#8217;s threats are viewed as undermining 4chan&#8217;s constitutional rights, its attorneys believe that no court in America will allow foreign penalties to be enforced in the United States. Once people begin speaking about that, the damage will have been done.</p>
  316. <p><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/ofcom-4chan.png" alt="ofcom-4chan" width="649" height="779" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271252" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/ofcom-4chan.png 649w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/ofcom-4chan-300x360.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/ofcom-4chan-600x720.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/ofcom-4chan-125x150.png 125w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 649px) 100vw, 649px" /></center></p>
  317. <p>Given the offense caused by last year&#8217;s threats by UK police against U.S. citizens, and similar events since then, the final three paragraphs of the statement above seem especially relevant. </p>
  318. <p>By selecting 4chan as a potential target for enforcement, knowing all too well it would refuse to comply, a stand-off has been engineered between UK censorship measures nobody asked for, and the constitutional rights of all Americans.</p>
  319. <p>If the hallmarks of the win in The Pirate Bay case were predictability, inability to mount any defense, and the avoidance of controversy, this is only just short of a complete disaster. .</p>
  320. <h2>Who&#8217;s in Charge of Government Policy?</h2>
  321. <p>Further escalation at the political level in the event Ofcom digs in, may demand intervention at the highest level. For Prime Minister Keir Starmer, that does not bode well</p>
  322. <p>First, Ofcom is independent, so that may not even be possible. Second, consider this recent exchange between JD Vance and Keir Starmer himself on the erosion of free speech in the UK.</p>
  323. <p><em><strong>Vance:</strong> &#8220;We also know that there have been infringements on free speech that actually affect not just the British. Of course, what the British do in their own country is up to them, but they also affect American technology companies and by extension American citizens. So that is something that we&#8217;ll talk about today at lunch.&#8221;</p>
  324. <p><strong>Starmer</strong>: &#8220;We&#8217;ve had free speech for a very long time in the United Kingdom and uh..uh.. and it will last for a very, very long time. Well no, I mean we certainly wouldn&#8217;t want to reach across to US citizens&#8230;and we don&#8217;t&#8230;and that&#8217;s absolutely right.</em></p>
  325. <p>Ofcom begs to differ, clearly; so who is in charge here? Why doesn&#8217;t the Prime Minister know that the UK is actively &#8220;reaching across to US citizens?&#8221; Unfortunately, Ofcom has a reputation for not backing down. On the plus side, it hasn&#8217;t imposed any penalties to back down from yet, so there is that.</p>
  326. <p><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/safety.png" alt="safety" width="348" height="205" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271277" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/safety.png 348w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/safety-300x177.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/safety-150x88.png 150w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/safety-220x130.png 220w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 348px) 100vw, 348px" /></center></p>
  327. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  328. ]]></content:encoded>
  329. </item>
  330. <item>
  331. <title>UK Live Sports Piracy Sets New Record, Movie Piracy Returns to 2019 Peak</title>
  332. <link>https://torrentfreak.com/uk-live-sports-piracy-sets-new-record-movie-piracy-returns-to-2019-peak-250823/</link>
  333. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Andy Maxwell]]></dc:creator>
  334. <pubDate>Sat, 23 Aug 2025 13:20:07 +0000</pubDate>
  335. <category><![CDATA[Piracy Research]]></category>
  336. <category><![CDATA[Intellectual Property Office]]></category>
  337. <category><![CDATA[iptv]]></category>
  338. <category><![CDATA[live sports]]></category>
  339. <category><![CDATA[Online Copyright Infringement tracker]]></category>
  340. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://torrentfreak.com/?p=270886</guid>
  341.  
  342. <description><![CDATA[<p>A new edition of the UK's Online Copyright Infringement Tracker has landed after taking a year off. The headline figure indicates a small decrease in the overall piracy rate, down from 32% in 2022 to 29% in 2024. In the movies, music and live sports categories, pirate consumption increased in 2024, with live sports increasing to a new high at the same time as legal subscriptions fall.</p>
  343. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  344. ]]></description>
  345. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/OCI-TRacker1a-e1755824795574.png" alt="" width="300" height="206" class="alignright size-full wp-image-271285" />The Online Copyright Infringement Tracker (OCI) has provided data on piracy carried out online for more than a decade. After publication of <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/uk-govt-reveals-3-9-million-people-illegally-streamed-live-sports-in-2022-230207/">Wave 12 in 2022</a>, there was no report covering 2023.</p>
  346. <p>The latest Wave 13 edition covers online infringement in 2024, spanning various categories including movies, music, TV shows, and live sports. The online survey component was conducted among a representative 5,000 person sample of the UK population aged 12 and above.</p>
  347. <h2>OCI Wave 13 (2024)</h2>
  348. <p>The headline figure reveals a small decrease in the overall piracy rate, from 32% in 2022 to 29% in 2024. This figure represents the proportion of the total sample who had accessed any online content illegally during the previous three months. While any improvement will be welcomed by rightsholders, the authors of the report say the figure should be interpreted with caution due to the addition of new content categories and methods of access.</p>
  349. <p>The software category showed the most progress, with the infringement rate falling from 38% in 2022 to 31% in 2024. Audiobook piracy developed in the opposite direction, increasing from 22% in 2022 to 30% last year. </p>
  350. <p>In most of the other categories, infringement rates are close to those reported two years ago. Live sports, software, digital magazines, and audiobooks show above average piracy rates, and music, TV, video games, and ebooks, all show rates below average.</p>
  351. <h2> ↑ Music Piracy Infringement Rate ↑ </h2>
  352. <p>Music infringement rates increased marginally from 25% in 2022 to 26% in 2024. The figure relates to those who used a mix of legal and illegal sources in the preceding three months.</p>
  353. <p><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-music-inringe-trend-wave13.png" alt="oci-music-inringe-trend-wave13" width="650" height="53" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271293" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-music-inringe-trend-wave13.png 986w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-music-inringe-trend-wave13-300x24.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-music-inringe-trend-wave13-600x49.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-music-inringe-trend-wave13-150x12.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /></center></p>
  354. <p>This means that for the last two waves, the overall piracy rate for music has stayed above the 24% rate reported in 2015, which preceded several year-on-year reductions. <em>(red line denotes change in methodology)</em></p>
  355. <p>In 2019 and 2020, the number of listeners consuming exclusively from legal sources showed slight increases, with those consuming exclusively from illegal sources remaining fairly static. Since then, legal-only consumers have fallen, with the percentage of respondents consuming from illegal sources increasing compared to previous years (47% vs. 45%).</p>
  356. <p><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-music-sources2-e1755832893587.png" alt="oci-wave13-music-sources2" width="650" height="239" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271294" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-music-sources2-e1755832893587.png 657w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-music-sources2-e1755832893587-300x111.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-music-sources2-e1755832893587-600x221.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-music-sources2-e1755832893587-150x55.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /></center></p>
  357. <p>In 2024, 53% of respondents said they only accessed music legally, with less than half (19%) relying exclusively on piracy.</p>
  358. <p>Downloading was the dominant method used to access pirated music in 2024, with just 2% of respondents streaming using a mix of legal and illegal sources. No respondents reported streaming illegally. Overall, it&#8217;s estimated that around eight million people pirate at least some music in the UK</p>
  359. <h2> ↑ Movie Piracy Infringement Rate ↑ </h2>
  360. <p>In 2024, the overall infringement rate for movies continued on an upwards trend, from 24% in 2022 to 27% in 2024.</p>
  361. <p><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-movies.png" alt="oci-wave13-movies" width="650" height="55" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271296" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-movies.png 789w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-movies-300x25.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-movies-600x51.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-movies-150x13.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /></center></p>
  362. <p>This three percentage point increase means a return to the highest overall movie piracy infringement rate recorded back in 2019. That high of 27% was due to an eight point shock increase over the rate reported in 2018 (19%), which in turn was the lowest rate recorded since 2015.</p>
  363. <p><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-movie-sources.png" alt="oci-wave13-movie-sources" width="650" height="419" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271323" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-movie-sources.png 735w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-movie-sources-300x193.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-movie-sources-600x387.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-movie-sources-150x97.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /></center></p>
  364. <p>Wave 13 data (2024) shows 73% of respondents downloading movies exclusively from legal sources, with 17% utilizing both legal and illegal. One in ten (10%) respondents pirated everything they consumed.</p>
  365. <p>Infringement via streaming sources was relatively low, with 17% mixing legal/illegal and just 4% obtaining everything from illegal sources. In Wave 12 (2022), 83% of respondents said they relied solely on legal sources to stream movies, a figure that dropped four points to 79% in Wave 13 (2024).</p>
  366. <h2> → TV Piracy Infringement Rate ←</h2>
  367. <p>In 2024, the overall infringement rate for TV shows was 19%, unchanged from the previous wave in 2022. </p>
  368. <p><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-tv-e1755862833463.png" alt="oci-wave13-tv" width="650" height="44" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271324" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-tv-e1755862833463.png 778w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-tv-e1755862833463-300x20.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-tv-e1755862833463-600x41.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-tv-e1755862833463-150x10.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /></center></p>
  369. <p>While significantly higher than the 14% recorded in both 2020 and 2021, today&#8217;s overall piracy rate for TV content remains lower than the 21% recorded nine years ago.</p>
  370. <p>The data on consumption sources shows 80% of respondents downloading exclusively from legal sources in 2024.</p>
  371. <p><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-tvsources.png" alt="oci-wave13-tvsources" width="650" height="248" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271327" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-tvsources.png 665w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-tvsources-300x115.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-tvsources-600x229.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-tvsources-150x57.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /></center></p>
  372. <p>This represents a marginal improvement over figures reported in 2022, which had deteriorated following an all-time high in 2021. Those who downloaded all TV content illegally sat at 8% in 2024, with 11% downloading from a mix of legal/illegal sources.</p>
  373. <p>The study found little change in the rate of TV show infringement purely via streaming, with 13% using a mix and just 2% using illegal sources exclusively. </p>
  374. <h2> ↑ Live Sport Piracy Infringement Rate ↑</h2>
  375. <p>In 2024, the overall infringement rate for live sports was 38%, an increase of two points over the previous wave in 2022.</p>
  376. <p>Live sports consumption appeared in its own category in the OCI tracker for the first time in 2019 and, apart from a Covid-related dip in 2021, has shown consistently high rates of infringement. </p>
  377. <p><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-live-sports.png" alt="oci-wave13-live-sports" width="650" height="51" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271328" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-live-sports.png 787w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-live-sports-300x24.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-live-sports-600x47.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-live-sports-150x12.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /></center></p>
  378. <p>The latest figure of 38% in Wave 13 has the dubious honor of being the highest rate recorded since 2019. While this isn&#8217;t considered a significant increase in the study, data on the sources used to watch live sports may be a cause for concern.</p>
  379. <p><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-live-sports-sources.png" alt="oci-wave13-live-sports-sources" width="650" height="182" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271331" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-live-sports-sources.png 672w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-live-sports-sources-300x84.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-live-sports-sources-600x168.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-wave13-live-sports-sources-150x42.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /></center></p>
  380. <p>Data from 2024 shows a decrease in legal-only live sports consumption (62% of respondents in 2024) and a similar one point decrease in exclusively illegal consumption to 14% (15% in 2022). The study provides additional context:</p>
  381. <p> • Exclusive use of illegal sources highest among those aged 16-24 (28%)<br />
  382. • Exclusive use of illegal sources in other age groups (8% to 20%)<br />
  383. • Those with a high passion for live sport are most likely to infringe (44%)</p>
  384. <p>While use of paid subscriptions to music streaming services increased by 3% (57% of respondents), paid subscriptions to sports streaming platforms fell by 8% in 2024 (51% of respondents). Meanwhile, paid subscriptions to pirate IPTV providers to access live sports were up 4% and used by 12% of respondents.</p>
  385. <p>&#8220;In the qualitative phase, some participants mentioned having to abandon subscriptions to live sports, due to managing this cost alongside other increasing costs,&#8221; the study&#8217;s authors reveal. </p>
  386. <p>&#8220;Participants suggested that, in the future, they would need to further decrease their consumption of live sports subscriptions and settle for free broadcasts on terrestrial TV.&#8221;</p>
  387. <h2>Headline Figures &#038; Key Drivers of Infringement</h2>
  388. <p>The study found that music is pirated by more people than any other media, 9.9 million in total. An estimated 8.9 million people pirate movies, with 6.2 million getting their TV fix from pirate sites.</p>
  389. <p>Live sports piracy is yet to topple the three main categories, but with 3.9 million people getting at least some events for free, the numbers are significant.</p>
  390. <p><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-total-infringers-wave-13.png" alt="oci-total-infringers-wave 13" width="650" height="493" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271340" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-total-infringers-wave-13.png 721w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-total-infringers-wave-13-300x228.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-total-infringers-wave-13-600x455.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-total-infringers-wave-13-150x114.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /></center></p>
  391. <p>No real surprises or big changes in the dominant categories, but there&#8217;s potential for live sports to continue on an upward trend, and with an eight-point increase, audiobooks seem like a category to watch.</p>
  392. <p><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-overall-wave13.png" alt="oci-overall-wave13" width="650" height="333" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271339" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-overall-wave13.png 823w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-overall-wave13-300x154.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-overall-wave13-600x308.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/oci-overall-wave13-150x77.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /></center></p>
  393. <p>The study suggests that the rising costs of living, which include increased prices for music, TV/film, and video games subscriptions, all contribute to infringement levels.</p>
  394. <p>The perception of unfair or high pricing for legal services, especially when multiple subscriptions are required, is cited as a main driver for illegal content access, with saving money the key benefit.</p>
  395. <p><em>The Online Copyright Infringement Tracker Survey (13th Wave) is available <a href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/68541af0f812712f8458153c/OCI-2024-Main-Findings-Report.odt">here</a> (ODT)</em></p>
  396. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  397. ]]></content:encoded>
  398. </item>
  399. <item>
  400. <title>Lithuanian Regulator Clashes With Data Firm Over &#8220;Misleading&#8221; Piracy Stats</title>
  401. <link>https://torrentfreak.com/lithuanian-regulator-clashes-with-data-firm-over-misleading-piracy-stats/</link>
  402. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Ernesto Van der Sar]]></dc:creator>
  403. <pubDate>Fri, 22 Aug 2025 10:32:02 +0000</pubDate>
  404. <category><![CDATA[Piracy]]></category>
  405. <category><![CDATA[Lithuania]]></category>
  406. <category><![CDATA[MUSO]]></category>
  407. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://torrentfreak.com/?p=271107</guid>
  408.  
  409. <description><![CDATA[<p>Lithuania's broadcasting regulator (LRTK) challenges the accuracy of data reported by piracy tracking firm MUSO, which is the main input for key EUIPO reports. Citing flaws such as the inclusion of legal sites and an inability to track VPN or IPTV use, LRTK argues that its country is being unfairly portrayed as a piracy leader. In response, MUSO says the LRTK's statements are themselves misleading and the company demands a correction.</p>
  410. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  411. ]]></description>
  412. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/lithuaniawall-600x458.jpg" alt="lithuania flag" width="300" height="229" class="alignright size-large wp-image-271183" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/lithuaniawall-600x458.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/lithuaniawall-300x229.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/lithuaniawall-150x115.jpg 150w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/lithuaniawall.jpg 741w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />Late last year, the European Union Intellectual Property Office released its <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/eu-research-links-youth-unemployment-and-income-inequality-to-more-piracy-241129/">latest copyright infringement monitor</a> report. </p>
  413. <p>The research is part of a recurring series that has tracked European piracy rates since 2017. Among other things, the data helps to shape future policy decisions. </p>
  414. <p>The report draws on data provided by UK-based piracy monitoring company <a href="https://www.muso.com/">MUSO</a>. The data is largely based on web-based visits to pirate sites and doesn&#8217;t count views or downloads for this purpose. That said, it&#8217;s generally seen as a decent proxy for pirate interest. </p>
  415. <p>As in previous years, Lithuania was listed as one of the countries with a relatively high number of visits to pirate sites per user, more than double the EU average. This isn&#8217;t a major surprise, as piracy rates in Eastern Europe have always been high. However, the Lithuanian authorities believe this doesn&#8217;t reflect the reality on the ground. </p>
  416. <h2>Lithuania: We&#8217;re No Piracy Haven</h2>
  417. <p>Earlier this week, the Lithuanian Radio and Television Commission (LRTK) published <a href="https://www.rtk.lt/lt/naujienos/lietuva-nebera-piratavimo-lydere-lrtk-uzkarde-simtus-neteisetu-svetainiu-o-muso-duomenys-klaidina">an article</a> highlighting its achievements on the anti-piracy front. It notes that hundreds of sites were blocked in 2024 to prevent access to copyrighted content. </p>
  418. <p>The authorities also enabled more advanced methods, including advanced DNS and HTTPS blocking. With these measures in place, LRTK is confident that a significant part of all traffic to piracy sites has been eliminated, motivating more people to sign up with legal streaming platforms.</p>
  419. <p>These enforcement updates are not just to show the country&#8217;s reported progress on the anti-piracy front; the government body specifically wants to counter the impression that Lithuania is a piracy haven.</p>
  420. <p>&#8220;Lithuania is consistently implementing effective measures to fight against piracy. In recent years, the blocked websites have covered a significant portion of illegal traffic. Claims that Lithuania is a leader in piracy no longer reflect reality today,&#8221; says Mantas Martišius, LRTK&#8217;s Chairman.</p>
  421. <h2>Dated Piracy Data</h2>
  422. <p>The regulatory body is undeniably taking action in response to piracy. Measuring the effectiveness of these measures isn&#8217;t straightforward, but it&#8217;s clear that LRTK is frustrated by the suggestion that online piracy is (still) rampant in the country. </p>
  423. <p>LRTK says that public discussions continue to cite MUSO data from 2021, which ranked Lithuania fifth <sup>(<a href="#note">*note</a>)</sup> in the EU when considering piracy rate per user. </p>
  424. <p><center><em>LTRK&#8217;s article (translated)</em></center><br /><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/LRTK.jpg" alt="LTRK" width="600" height="467" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-271304" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/LRTK.jpg 1130w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/LRTK-300x234.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/LRTK-600x467.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/LRTK-150x117.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></center></p>
  425. <p>According to LRTK, current policy discussions should not be based on old data, since the situation in Lithuania has changed dramatically. Enforcement has picked up in the country and while MUSO data can be useful, it is not flawless, LRTK says. </p>
  426. <p>&#8220;MUSO data can be useful for seeing the global picture, but it is not accurate enough to assess individual countries. Especially relatively small markets like Lithuania,&#8221; LRTK&#8217;s chairman says.</p>
  427. <h2>&#8220;Misleading&#8221; Data Discussed at EUIPO</h2>
  428. <p>The regulatory body goes a step further by calling the data misleading. It points out several issues and problems, including retrospective data updates, the exclusion of non-web-based piracy, and the lack of a clear definition of what constitutes a pirate site.</p>
  429. <p>LRTK also notes that the sample of pirate sites includes legitimate websites. When we asked for more details, a spokesperson mentioned the official South Park URL, southparkstudios.com, as an example of a site that&#8217;s inaccurately listed as a pirate resource.</p>
  430. <div style="background-color: #f9f9f9; border-left: 5px solid #ef4b92; padding: 20px 30px; margin: 25px 0; font-family: sans-serif;">
  431. <h3 style="margin-top: 0;">LRTK&#8217;s Key Criticisms of MUSO&#8217;s Methodology</h3>
  432. <ul style="padding-left: 0; list-style: none;">
  433. <li style="position: relative; overflow: hidden; margin-left: -25px; padding-left: 55px; margin-bottom: 15px; list-style-type: none !important;">
  434.            <span style="position: absolute; left: 25px; top: 50%; transform: translateY(-50%); color: #0073aa; font-weight: bold;">&#10007;</span><br />
  435.            <strong>Inclusion of Legal Sites:</strong> Data includes legitimate websites (e.g., southparkstudios.com) that are not classified as illegal, leading to inflated piracy stats.
  436.        </li>
  437. <li style="position: relative; overflow: hidden; margin-left: -25px; padding-left: 55px; margin-bottom: 15px; list-style-type: none !important;">
  438.            <span style="position: absolute; left: 25px; top: 50%; transform: translateY(-50%); color: #0073aa; font-weight: bold;">&#10007;</span><br />
  439.            <strong>Exclusion of Key Pirate Sources:</strong> The methodology fails to track traffic from sites using only IP addresses and private, subscription-based IPTV/VOD services, thus missing a large portion of actual piracy.
  440.        </li>
  441. <li style="position: relative; overflow: hidden; margin-left: -25px; padding-left: 55px; margin-bottom: 15px; list-style-type: none !important;">
  442.            <span style="position: absolute; left: 25px; top: 50%; transform: translateY(-50%); color: #0073aa; font-weight: bold;">&#10007;</span><br />
  443.            <strong>VPN Data Blindspot:</strong> MUSO cannot accurately identify the country of users accessing sites via VPN, making country-specific data unreliable.
  444.        </li>
  445. <li style="position: relative; overflow: hidden; margin-left: -25px; padding-left: 55px; margin-bottom: 15px; list-style-type: none !important;">
  446.            <span style="position: absolute; left: 25px; top: 50%; transform: translateY(-50%); color: #0073aa; font-weight: bold;">&#10007;</span><br />
  447.            <strong>Lack of Clear Criteria:</strong> There are no transparent standards for how a website is classified as &#8220;pirated&#8221; on the platform.
  448.        </li>
  449. <li style="position: relative; overflow: hidden; margin-left: -25px; padding-left: 55px; margin-bottom: 0; list-style-type: none !important;">
  450.            <span style="position: absolute; left: 25px; top: 50%; transform: translateY(-50%); color: #0073aa; font-weight: bold;">&#10007;</span><br />
  451.            <strong>Retrospective Data Changes:</strong> Past piracy data is arbitrarily changed when collection methods are updated, making historical trends and comparisons unreliable.
  452.        </li>
  453. </ul>
  454. </div>
  455. <p>LRTK takes these concerns seriously. It recently presented comments on MUSO methodology at the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), where the reliability of this type of data for EU-wide policy is currently being discussed.</p>
  456. <h2>MUSO: LRTK is Misleading </h2>
  457. <p>MUSO is not happy with these comments and the associated allegations. The piracy tracking company tells us that they were not informed about these concerns before they were publicly shared by LRTK.</p>
  458. <p>&#8220;The statements they made are misleading, and we are requesting that LRTK amend their comments,&#8221; MUSO says.</p>
  459. <p>MUSO did not respond to the issues in detail, except for mentioning that a previous data adjustment was linked to a third-party data problem that has been resolved. </p>
  460. <p>What is clear, however, is that MUSO&#8217;s data isn&#8217;t comprehensive. It doesn&#8217;t measure IPTV use, for example, as it only counts website visits. In addition, VPN usage can cloud reporting if it&#8217;s not filtered out. If and how that impacts Lithuania&#8217;s piracy rank is anyone&#8217;s guess.</p>
  461. <p>While MUSO maintains that the regulator&#8217;s claims are &#8216;misleading,&#8217; LRTK is convinced that its enforcement actions have changed the landscape. Without providing alternative data, the commission believes the country is no longer a frontrunner when it comes to online piracy.</p>
  462. <p>&#8220;Lithuania is no longer the leader in piracy. The actions of the LRTK in recent years – hundreds of blocked websites, IP addresses and the implementation of advanced blocking tools – have significantly reduced the scale of illegal content,&#8221; LRTK&#8217;s statement concludes. </p>
  463. <p>&#8212;<br />
  464. <a name="note"></a></p>
  465. <div style="background-color: #f8f8f8; border-top: 2px solid #ddd; padding: 20px; margin-top: 40px; font-size: 0.5em; color: #6b605f;">
  466. <p style="margin-top: 0;"><strong>Ranked fifth in the EU?:</strong></p>
  467. <p>The LRTK&#8217;s specific claim that Lithuania was ranked fifth in the EU based on 2021 MUSO data is difficult to source from a final EUIPO publication. The statement likely conflates several high rankings from that period.</p>
  468. <p>For example, <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/images/Determing-the-Level-of-Pirated-Content-Consumption-in-the-Lithuanian-Population_Summary_2024_EN.pdf">a 2024 report</a> from Lithuania&#8217;s Ministry of Culture references two key statistics for the year <strong>2021</strong>: one from an EUIPO survey that placed the country <strong>third in the EU</strong>, and separate MUSO data that ranked it <strong>fifth</strong> overall.</p>
  469. <p>While that data is a few years old, the most recent EUIPO report—<a href="https://torrentfreak.com/eu-research-links-youth-unemployment-and-income-inequality-to-more-piracy-241129/">published in November 2024</a>—shows the trend has continued. This latest report, which contains data for <strong>2023</strong>, places Lithuania among the <strong>top four countries</strong> with the highest overall piracy rates.</p>
  470. <p style="margin-bottom: 0;">These high rankings come in addition to the Lithuanian ministry&#8217;s own survey, which found that 40% of the population had consumed pirated content in the past year.</p>
  471. </div>
  472. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  473. ]]></content:encoded>
  474. </item>
  475. <item>
  476. <title>Alleged Pirate Site Operator Arrested, Family Crowdfunds &#8220;David vs. Goliath&#8221; Defense</title>
  477. <link>https://torrentfreak.com/alleged-pirate-site-operator-arrested-family-crowdfunds-david-vs-goliath-defense/</link>
  478. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Ernesto Van der Sar]]></dc:creator>
  479. <pubDate>Thu, 21 Aug 2025 10:49:22 +0000</pubDate>
  480. <category><![CDATA[Piracy]]></category>
  481. <category><![CDATA[an angulo tv]]></category>
  482. <category><![CDATA[argentina]]></category>
  483. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://torrentfreak.com/?p=271193</guid>
  484.  
  485. <description><![CDATA[<p>With millions of monthly visits, sports streaming service 'Al Ángulo TV' was a massive success. The operator of the service, who wasn't shy about appearing in public, was very active on social media. This brazen stance didn't go unnoticed by rights holders. This week, Argentinian authorities arrested the alleged operator, Alejo Leonel Warles, who now faces a criminal prosecution. His family is reportedly backing a fundraiser to aid a "David vs. Goliath" defense.</p>
  486. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  487. ]]></description>
  488. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/alangulo-600x504.jpg" alt="al angulo" width="300" height="252" class="alignright size-large wp-image-271200" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/alangulo-600x504.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/alangulo-300x252.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/alangulo-150x126.jpg 150w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/alangulo.jpg 786w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />Sports streaming services are popular worldwide, with different regions having their local favorites. </p>
  489. <p>In Latin America, the Magis TV brand is particularly popular but another name also popped up more frequently: &#8216;Al Ángulo TV&#8217;.</p>
  490. <p>Al Ángulo was available through various domain names as well as an Android app, offering access to a variety of pirated sports streams. As its logo suggests, football was a particularly popular sport on the service. </p>
  491. <h2>&#8216;Al Ángulo TV&#8217; Operator Arrested</h2>
  492. <p>The streaming service stood out as its alleged operator, known online as &#8216;Shishi&#8217; (real name Alejo Leonel Warles), was both active and visible on social media. Just a few days ago, Al Ángulo&#8217;s official X account celebrated <a href="https://x.com/AIAnguloTV/status/1957132575253647520">100,000 followers</a>, a figure that has since skyrocketed to over 125,000 today. The reasons for the increase aren&#8217;t what Warles had hoped for. </p>
  493. <p>Yesterday, Warles was arrested by local authorities in the city of Paraná, Argentina. The arrest, carried out by the San Isidro DDI, was approved by a local court following a month-long criminal investigation led by the Specialized Cybercrime Investigation Unit (UFEIC) of San Isidro, Buenos Aires.</p>
  494. <p><center><em>The arrest</em></center><br /><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/arrestal.jpg" alt="arrest" width="600" height="555" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-271207" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/arrestal.jpg 1102w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/arrestal-300x278.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/arrestal-600x555.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/arrestal-150x139.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></center></p>
  495. <p>The investigation received key support from international organizations, including the Alliance Against Audiovisual Piracy (ALIANZA) and Spain&#8217;s professional football league, LaLiga, which were both directly affected by Al Ángulo&#8217;s activities.</p>
  496. <p>At the time of writing, the main domain of the service, which received over three million visits in July, is unreachable. This suggests that the operation was effectively shut down by the law enforcement operation.</p>
  497. <h2>Catch Me if You Can</h2>
  498. <p>According to a report from <a href="https://www.infobae.com/sociedad/policiales/2025/08/21/pediran-la-excarcelacion-del-creador-de-al-angulo-tv-y-su-familia-lanzo-una-colecta-para-ayudarlo/">Infobae</a>, Warles previously acknowledged the illegal nature of the service, while informing followers that &#8216;no one could catch him&#8217;. The alleged operator had also appeared in press interviews and was <a href="https://x.com/lukyano/status/1958255227007824007">active</a> on YouTube as <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@W4RLES">W4RLES</a>.</p>
  499. <p>With this and other information, the authorities were able to connect the dots and then arrest the presumed brain behind the operation. Warles now faces charges for violating Law 11.723, Argentina&#8217;s copyright law, risking a multi-year prison sentence. </p>
  500. <p><center><em>Al Ángulo TV (last month)</em></center><br /><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/alangulofull-1.jpg" alt="al angulo" width="600" height="517" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-271215" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/alangulofull-1.jpg 1124w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/alangulofull-1-300x258.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/alangulofull-1-600x517.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/alangulofull-1-150x129.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></center></p>
  501. <p>&#8216;Al Ángulo TV&#8217; reportedly generated revenues through advertising and direct user donations through virtual wallets and cryptocurrencies. During the raid on Warles&#8217; home, authorities seized computers, cell phones, electronic devices, and various funds stored in the virtual accounts.</p>
  502. <h2>David vs. Goliath Fundraiser</h2>
  503. <p>The defendant is represented by attorney Fernando Madeo Facente, who will file a request for Warles to be released on bail, arguing that he has no prior criminal record. The attorney sees this case as a &#8220;David versus Goliath&#8221; battle.</p>
  504. <p>“It&#8217;s similar to the case against the Fútbol Libre site. They&#8217;re multinational companies, and the Spanish LaLiga is involved in this. It&#8217;s David versus Goliath. A very powerful company versus a kid from a humble family,” Facente said, quoted by Infobae.</p>
  505. <p>Shortly after the arrest, a fundraiser was launched to cover legal expenses and travel costs. This effort, <a href="https://x.com/Tomiscopa/status/1958276699390726631">purportedly</a> backed by the family, is widely shared <a href="https://x.com/Tomiscopa/status/1958276692121899459">on social media</a>.</p>
  506. <p> <center><em>Fundraiser (Mercado Pago wallet)</em></center><br /><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/fundraiser.jpg" alt="MP domain" width="500" height="568" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-271211" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/fundraiser.jpg 838w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/fundraiser-300x341.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/fundraiser-600x682.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/fundraiser-132x150.jpg 132w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></center></p>
  507. <p>According to Warles&#8217; attorney, this swift action demonstrates that powerful forces, including LaLiga, are driving the case. Rightsholders, in turn, will see it as evidence that Argentinian authorities are taking piracy seriously.</p>
  508. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  509. ]]></content:encoded>
  510. </item>
  511. <item>
  512. <title>Spotify Takes Down EeveeSpotify; &#8216;Reborn&#8217; Version Immediately Surfaces</title>
  513. <link>https://torrentfreak.com/spotify-takes-down-eeveespotify-reborn-version-immediately-surfaces/</link>
  514. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Ernesto Van der Sar]]></dc:creator>
  515. <pubDate>Wed, 20 Aug 2025 18:59:02 +0000</pubDate>
  516. <category><![CDATA[Anti-Piracy]]></category>
  517. <category><![CDATA[DRM]]></category>
  518. <category><![CDATA[EeveeSpotify]]></category>
  519. <category><![CDATA[EeveeSpotifyReborn]]></category>
  520. <category><![CDATA[spotify]]></category>
  521. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://torrentfreak.com/?p=271129</guid>
  522.  
  523. <description><![CDATA[<p>Responding directly to a takedown notice from Spotify, GitHub removed the popular EeveeSpotify tool that allowed music fans to unlock premium features without a paid subscription. Soon after GitHub complied with the DMCA notice, the tool's developer relaunched the project as 'EeveeSpotifyReborn', offering the same functionality but with a legal twist.</p>
  524. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  525. ]]></description>
  526. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/spotify-logo.jpg" alt="spotify logo" width="300" height="207" class="alignright size-full wp-image-271153" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/spotify-logo.jpg 531w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/spotify-logo-300x207.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/spotify-logo-150x104.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />With nearly 700 million monthly active users across over 180 markets, Spotify is the world&#8217;s most popular music streaming service by a significant margin.</p>
  527. <p>The streaming giant has always positioned itself as a competitor to pirate services, but its success also relied on pirates. In the early days, Spotify allegedly used <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/spotifys-beta-used-pirate-mp3-files-some-from-pirate-bay-170509/">MP3s from The Pirate Bay</a> to populate its beta service. The notorious Swedish torrent site was instrumental in other ways too. </p>
  528. <p>Times change, however, and today online piracy and related tools are a major nuisance for the Swedish company. They get in the way of selling subscriptions and hurt the company&#8217;s bottom line.</p>
  529. <h2>Spotify Takes Down &#8216;EeveeSpotify&#8217;</h2>
  530. <p>EeveeSpotify, a software tweak for iOS that allowed users to access premium features without having to sign up for a paid subscription, was especially popular. Like its defunct predecessor Spotilife, it offered an ad-free listening experience, access to lyrics, and the ability to play any song on demand.</p>
  531. <p>Developer &#8216;whoeevee&#8217; posted pre-compiled IPA application packages on GitHub, so users could easily download an already modified version of the Spotify app, including the necessary tweaks.</p>
  532. <p>After EeveeSpotify gained substantial traction over the past year, Spotify stepped in, asking GitHub to remove the entire repository from its platform. </p>
  533. <p>&#8220;The files identified below were derived from unauthorized copies of the Spotify Copyrights and/or the files identified below are derivative works based on the Spotify Copyrights,&#8221; <a href="https://github.com/github/dmca/blob/master/2025/08/2025-08-14-spotify.md">Spotify wrote</a>, listing the entire EeveeSpotify repository as problematic. </p>
  534. <p><center><em>Spotify&#8217;s takedown notice</em></center><br /><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/eveedmca.jpg" alt="spotify eevee" width="600" height="411" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-271156" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/eveedmca.jpg 1053w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/eveedmca-300x205.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/eveedmca-600x411.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/eveedmca-150x103.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></center></p>
  535. <p>The takedown notice specifically mentions derivatives. This is accurate, as EeveeSpotify was distributed pre-compiled and included the Spotify application&#8217;s original copyrighted code. As a result, GitHub took action, <a href="https://github.com/whoeevee/EeveeSpotify">disabling the entire repository</a> as well as more than 500 forks. </p>
  536. <p><center><em>Removed</em></center><br /><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/dmcaspot.jpg" alt="spotify removed" width="600" height="348" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-271158" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/dmcaspot.jpg 1178w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/dmcaspot-300x174.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/dmcaspot-600x348.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/dmcaspot-150x87.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></center></p>
  537. <h2>&#8216;EeveeSpotify Reborn&#8217;</h2>
  538. <p>The removal was a disappointment for many users as well as the developer. However, &#8216;whoeevee&#8217; read the notice carefully and concluded that there may be a way for the popular code tweak to survive in the form of &#8216;<a href="https://github.com/whoeevee/EeveeSpotifyReborn">EeveeSpotifyReborn</a>&#8216;. </p>
  539. <p>Soon after Spotify&#8217;s DMCA notice was honored by GitHub, the developer posted a new repository on GitHub offering the same functionality, but with a key difference. EeveeSpotifyReborn does not include the IPA packages containing Spotify&#8217;s copyrighted code. </p>
  540. <p>&#8220;The original EeveeSpotify repository was disabled due to a DMCA takedown. This repository will not contain the IPA packages, as they are most likely the reason for the takedown,&#8221; the developer notes. </p>
  541. <p><center><em>Reborn</em></center><br /><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/reborn.jpg" alt="reborn" width="600" height="236" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-271164" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/reborn.jpg 1281w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/reborn-300x118.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/reborn-600x236.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/reborn-150x59.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></center></p>
  542. <p>Without an easy sideloading option, some users may find it harder to install the tweak. However, the developer no longer directly infringes Spotify&#8217;s copyright. At the same time, the legal responsibility for modifying the Spotify app shifts more towards the end-user who applies the patch.</p>
  543. <p>Whether this will ensure availability of the code going forward is unknown. In its takedown notice, Spotify also mentions that it uses protection measures to control access to copyrighted content. The company may argue that the tweak violates the anti-circumvention provision of the DMCA and enables wider infringement by users of the tweak. </p>
  544. <p>For now, EeveeSpotifyReborn, which already has more than 100 forks on GitHub, remains online.</p>
  545. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  546. ]]></content:encoded>
  547. </item>
  548. <item>
  549. <title>Two Alleged Pirate IPTV Operators Sent to Prison For Contempt of Court</title>
  550. <link>https://torrentfreak.com/two-alleged-pirate-iptv-operators-sent-to-prison-for-contempt-of-court-250820/</link>
  551. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Andy Maxwell]]></dc:creator>
  552. <pubDate>Wed, 20 Aug 2025 09:48:00 +0000</pubDate>
  553. <category><![CDATA[Piracy]]></category>
  554. <category><![CDATA[Bell Media]]></category>
  555. <category><![CDATA[canada]]></category>
  556. <category><![CDATA[SmoothStreams]]></category>
  557. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://torrentfreak.com/?p=271080</guid>
  558.  
  559. <description><![CDATA[<p>Two men said to be the operators of SmoothStreams, a pirate IPTV service shut down by entertainment companies over three years ago, have been imprisoned in Canada. Marshall Macciacchera and his father Antonio were both found guilty of contempt and sentenced to an initial term of six months. Marshall's sentence will continue until he complies with a court order to hand over financial information and a laptop password, among other things.</p>
  560. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  561. ]]></description>
  562. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://torrentfreak.com/images/smoothstreams.png"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/smoothstreams.png" alt="smoothstreams" width="200" height="246" class="alignright size-full wp-image-222197" /></a>A little over three years ago, SmoothStreams was considered one the most reliable and well-known pirate IPTV providers. Several years of what appeared to be fairly plain sailing in relatively calm waters proved to be deceptive.</p>
  563. <p>Following a years-long investigation, a huge coalition of entertainment industry companies including Bell Media and Rogers Media, members of MPA-Canada (Motion Picture Association Canada) and ACE (Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment), were preparing to shut SmoothStreams down.</p>
  564. <h2>The End of SmoothStreams</h2>
  565. <p>On June 17, 2022, Bell, Rogers, Disney, Paramount, Columbia, Warner Bros., and Universal filed a statement of claim against Marshall Macciacchera and Antonio Macciacchera (son and father respectively). According to the plaintiffs, these men were not just the operators of SmoothStreams, but were also behind several linked platforms including live247.tv, StreamTVNow.tv and StarStreams.tv.</p>
  566. <p>Armed with an Anton Piller order issued by judge, the plan was to gain entry to various premises and quickly secure crucial evidence to prevent tampering or even destruction. With potential prison sentences for failing to respect this type of order, those targeted are expected to comply and that&#8217;s usually what happens. <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/smoothstreams-iptv-shut-down-by-mpa-ace-after-secret-legal-process-220730/">Not here</a>. </p>
  567. <p>As individuals their responses differed, but the bottom line was broadly the same for both men. Neither fully complied with the order and for that there would be consequences. The men were <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/alleged-smoothstreams-iptv-operators-accused-of-contempt-of-court-221007/">accused</a> of contempt of court, an offense punishable by fines or even a custodial sentence. </p>
  568. <h2>The Long Haul and Mounting Costs</h2>
  569. <p>The substantial <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/mpa-v-s-smoothstreams-iptv-server-photos-shutdown-details-emerge-221213/">end of SmoothStreams</a> was never really in doubt but whether there would ever be a normal trial was a completely different matter. </p>
  570. <p>The plaintiffs quickly sought an order finding Marshall Macciacchera and several affiliated companies in contempt for failing to comply with the terms of an interim order. Failure to make financial disclosures, refusing to answer questions regarding assets, and failure to provide login credentials led to Marshall and the companies being charged with contempt in July 2022. </p>
  571. <h2>All Defendants Found Guilty of Contempt</h2>
  572. <p>Antonio faced a separate proceeding and a <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/judge-hits-pirate-iptv-defendant-with-71-1k-contempt-of-court-order-231219/">contempt judgment</a> in the summer of 2023. He was ordered to pay ~CAD$95,000 (~US$70,900) to the plaintiffs to cover their costs.</p>
  573. <p>In Marshall&#8217;s case, a contempt hearing spanning four days took place in April 2023, with additional submissions on five occasions to January 2024. The court concluded beyond a reasonable doubt that the terms of the interim order were knowingly breached; Marshall and three affiliated companies &#8211; Arm Hosting Inc., Star Hosting Limited, and Roma Works Limited &#8211; were all found guilty of contempt.</p>
  574. <p>In an order dated August 21, 2024, the defendants were instructed to pay a <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/bell-rogers-mpas-pirate-iptv-lawsuit-is-a-slow-motion-money-pit-nightmare-240903/">lump sum amount of CAD$375,312.93 (~US$270,600)</a> to  cover the plaintiffs&#8217; costs, an amount for which they were held jointly and severally liable.</p>
  575. <p>For Marshall and Antonio, these costs were just the beginning; penalties for contempt were yet to be decided.</p>
  576. <h2>Plaintiffs Demand Custodial Sentences</h2>
  577. <p>The entertainment company plaintiffs informed the defendants that they would seek an initial term of imprisonment of up to six months for both men, to continue until they complied with the terms of the interim order. They were expected to &#8220;cure their contempt&#8221; by providing the information, documentation, and passwords that they had been ordered to provide.</p>
  578. <p>The proposals put forth by Antonio and Marshall were considerably less punitive. </p>
  579. <p>Antonio recommended that he should receive a 30-day term of imprisonment to be served on weekends, or 30 days of house arrest, for failing to provide financial information. </p>
  580. <p>Marshall proposed a prison term of one week for his failure to comply with the terms of the interim order, without an offer to provide the plaintiffs with passwords, documents, and other information.</p>
  581. <p>Concerned that custodial sentences would elevate flight risk, the plaintiffs highlighted track records of non-compliance, almost 100 questions yet to be answered, and significant costs yet to be paid, together representing an ongoing challenge to the Court’s authority. Marshall&#8217;s response to the plaintiffs asking whether he intended to cure his contempt by handing over a password, was provided to the court as an example.</p>
  582. <p><center><em>Provide the password? Still &#8216;No&#8217;</em><em><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/password-no-can-do.png" alt="password-no-can-do" width="670" height="534" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271142" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/password-no-can-do.png 732w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/password-no-can-do-300x239.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/password-no-can-do-600x478.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/password-no-can-do-150x119.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 670px) 100vw, 670px" /></em></center>></p>
  583. <p>After thorough consideration, the Court <a href="https://www.canlii.org/en/ca/fct/doc/2025/2025fc461/2025fc461.html">ordered</a> Marshall and Antonio to surrender their passports to the Federal Court no later than 09:00 on the first day of their penalty hearing. There they would remain under seal until delivery of their penalty judgment, to be returned only when all appeals had been exhausted.</p>
  584. <h2>Order For Marshall&#8217;s Arrest</h2>
  585. <p>Throughout this entire case the majority of filings have remained unavailable to the public. An order dated August 15 was just the latest in a long line but a public note suggested that freedom had indeed been taken off the table.</p>
  586. <blockquote><p><em>Reasons for Order and Order dated 15-AUG-2025 rendered by Chief Justice Crampton. Matter considered with personal appearance. The Court&#8217;s decision is with regard to Special Case Result: </p>
  587. <p>&#8220;YOU ARE HEREBY ORDERED to: 1. Arrest Marshall Macciacchera, whose last known address is XXX-XXXX XXXXX XXXXXXX XXXX Woodbridge, Ontario XXX XXX, if it is necessary to do so in order to take him into custody.&#8221; </em></p></blockquote>
  588. <p>A follow-up note provides <a href="https://www.ippractice.ca/file-browser/?fileno=T-1257-22">valuable context</a> and reveals the fate of both men.</p>
  589. <p>The court found that the defendants showed blatant disregard for the orders, which aimed to prevent the destruction of evidence and transfer of funds outside the jurisdiction. </p>
  590. <p>The plaintiffs sought penalties including incarceration until compliance. The court ordered [Marshall] to serve an initial six-month sentence followed by a maximum of five years less one day for continued non-compliance, requiring the disclosure of assets and passwords. </p>
  591. <p>[Antonio] received a four-month initial term with the same maximum extension. The court emphasized that these penalties are necessary to uphold the rule of law and deter future contemptuous conduct, given the absence of mitigating factors in this case.</p>
  592. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  593. ]]></content:encoded>
  594. </item>
  595. <item>
  596. <title>&#8216;Ad Blocking is Not Piracy&#8217; Decision Overturned By Top German Court</title>
  597. <link>https://torrentfreak.com/ad-blocking-is-not-piracy-decision-overturned-by-top-german-court-250819/</link>
  598. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Andy Maxwell]]></dc:creator>
  599. <pubDate>Tue, 19 Aug 2025 11:03:15 +0000</pubDate>
  600. <category><![CDATA[Apps and Sites]]></category>
  601. <category><![CDATA[Lawsuits]]></category>
  602. <category><![CDATA[Adblock Plus]]></category>
  603. <category><![CDATA[Federal Supreme Court]]></category>
  604. <category><![CDATA[germany]]></category>
  605. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://torrentfreak.com/?p=271084</guid>
  606.  
  607. <description><![CDATA[<p>German publisher Axel Springer, owner of brands including Bild and Die Welt, has been given another opportunity to have ad blocking outlawed on copyright grounds. After a series of defeats in its years-long legal action against the makers of Adblock Plus, the publisher appealed to the Federal Court of Justice. Germany's top court has now overturned a 2023 ruling by the Higher Regional Court of Hamburg, referring the case back for reconsideration of the core issues.</p>
  608. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  609. ]]></description>
  610. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/abp-springer.png" alt="abp-springer" width="265" height="266" class="alignright size-full wp-image-271086" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/abp-springer.png 265w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/abp-springer-150x150.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 265px) 100vw, 265px" />There&#8217;s little doubt that online businesses reliant on advertising revenue are negatively affected by increasing use of ad blocking solutions.</p>
  611. <p>Yet it&#8217;s thanks to abusive and invasive ads, and threats to privacy due to incessant online tracking, that ad blockers became so popular. </p>
  612. <p>There&#8217;s a good argument today that an effective ad blocking solution is not just a way to keep out an avalanche of mostly unwanted advertising. In many cases ad blockers are seen as an essential tool in the internet user&#8217;s security toolbox and as a result, people are reluctant to turn them off.</p>
  613. <h2>Axel Springer Acquires Target, Misses, Switches to New Weapon</h2>
  614. <p>For German publisher Axel Springer, ad blocking solutions are mechanisms that fundamentally undermine the company&#8217;s ability to generate revenue. Hoping to force change, over a decade ago the company took legal action against Eyeo GmbH, the company behind <a href="https://adblockplus.org">Adblock Plus</a>, arguing that the software interfered with its business model. In April 2018, Adblock Plus and Eyeo came out on top, when Germany’s Supreme Court found no breach of competition law. </p>
  615. <p>Still determined to take ad blocking out of the game, Springer changed tack. In a new lawsuit, the publisher alleged that AdBlock Plus  removes ads by interfering with the &#8220;programming code of websites&#8221; which violates its exclusive rights under copyright law. </p>
  616. <p>Eyeo dismissed the claim as “almost absurd” and in January 2022 the Hamburg Regional Court denied Springer&#8217;s request for an injunction, ruling that there was no unauthorized copying or reworking of copyrighted computer programs as defined under local law. </p>
  617. <p>Springer appealed and in 2023 <a href="https://juris.bundesgerichtshof.de/cgi-bin/rechtsprechung/document.py?Gericht=bgh&#038;Art=en&#038;az=IV%20ZR%20131/23&#038;nr=137405">lost again</a>, this time at the Higher Regional Court of Hamburg. Refusing to accept defeat, the publisher filed yet another appeal at the <a href="https://www.bundesgerichtshof.de/SharedDocs/Pressemitteilungen/DE/2024/2024107.html">Federal Court of Justice</a> (BGH).</p>
  618. <h2>Treatment of Software Under German Copyright Law</h2>
  619. <p>While competition law may have been a dead end, copyright law can offer novel opportunities for the determined.</p>
  620. <p>Axel Springer&#8217;s argument is built on provisions in German copyright law for the protection of software. According to <a href="https://dejure.org/gesetze/UrhG/69a.html">§ 69a para. 3 UrhG</a>, a piece of software (&#8216;computer program&#8217;) is afforded protection under copyright law if it &#8220;represents an individual work to the extent that it is the result of the author’s own intellectual creation.&#8221; </p>
  621. <p>Protection applies to &#8220;all forms of expression&#8221; in the program but does not extend to &#8220;ideas and principles&#8221; underlying its elements. This effectively means that people can&#8217;t copy or distribute a piece of software verbatim, but they are free to write their own version of the software as long as there&#8217;s no direct copying of the original.</p>
  622. <p>In more general terms, computer programs are treated as literary works under the Copyright Act and as such enjoy the same protection. This means that the author of a computer program (or their employer) holds exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute and make the program publicly available, just as an author of a book would.</p>
  623. <h2>Springer Argues Websites Are Computer Programs</h2>
  624. <p>Axel Springer argues that the software used to create its online media presence (i.e its website) qualifies for protection as software under <a href="https://dejure.org/gesetze/UrhG/69a.html">§ 69a (1) and (2)</a> of the Copyright Act.</p>
  625. <p><center><em>§ 69a &#8211; Definition of software (German Copyright Act)</em><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/DE-Copyright-Act-s69a.png" alt="DE Copyright Act s69a" width="670" height="238" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271088" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/DE-Copyright-Act-s69a.png 1402w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/DE-Copyright-Act-s69a-300x106.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/DE-Copyright-Act-s69a-600x213.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/DE-Copyright-Act-s69a-150x53.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 670px) 100vw, 670px" /></center></p>
  626. <p>Based on the assumption that its software does indeed qualify for protection under § 69a, Axel Springer notes that further protection is afforded under § 69c, with certain exclusive rights granted to the rightsholder. </p>
  627. <p>Under § 69c, third parties must obtain permission for any of the following acts:</p>
  628. <p><center><em>§ 69c &#8211; Exclusive rights for qualifying software under § 69a (German Copyright Act)</em><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/DE-Copyright-Act-s69c.png" alt="DE Copyright Act s69c" width="670" height="298" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271089" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/DE-Copyright-Act-s69c.png 1409w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/DE-Copyright-Act-s69c-300x133.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/DE-Copyright-Act-s69c-600x267.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/DE-Copyright-Act-s69c-150x67.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 670px) 100vw, 670px" /></center></p>
  629. <blockquote><p><em>§ 69c (2) &#8220;the translation, adaptation, arrangement and other modifications of a computer program as well as the reproduction of the results obtained.&#8221;</em></p></blockquote>
  630. <p>Axel Springer&#8217;s argument is that when Adblock Plus blocks or manipulates its website code (&#8216;computer program&#8217;) present in the user&#8217;s browser, that amounts to a violation of its exclusive right of modification available under § 69c (2) and its reproduction right under § 69c (1).</p>
  631. <h2>Federal Court of Justice Overturns Decision of Lower Court</h2>
  632. <p>The above matters and others focused on the technical issues are detailed in the ruling handed down by the Federal Court of Justice (BGH). The ruling (<a href="http://juris.bundesgerichtshof.de/cgi-bin/rechtsprechung/document.py?Gericht=bgh&#038;Art=en&#038;client=12&#038;pos=0&#038;anz=1&#038;Blank=1.pdf&#038;nr=142511">Werbeblocker IV / Ad Blocker IV</a>) is clearly a setback for Eyeo GmbH; the Higher Regional Court of Hamburg previously ruled in favor of the Cologne-based company, a decision the BGH has just overturned.</p>
  633. <p>In a nutshell, the BGH states that the Hamburg court arrived at its decision without first establishing important fundamentals. These details may support the decision of the Hamburg court or undermine it, but that can only be determined once the facts are established.</p>
  634. <blockquote><p><em>&#8220;When examining whether an infringement of a copyrighted right to a protected object (here: a computer program within the meaning of Section 69a (1) of the Copyright Act) has occurred, it is not always necessary to determine whether this protected object meets the requirements of a copyrighted work, computer program, or related right. Rather, this circumstance can be assumed, provided that there is no unlawful infringement of copyright,&#8221; the decision reads.</p>
  635. <p>&#8220;It should be noted, however, that the question of an infringement of a property right may depend on a clear definition of the protected object and its features justifying protection. Denying an infringement of a copyright-protected right while simultaneously assuming that the protected object in question is eligible for copyright protection is therefore only possible in such a case if the object itself deemed to be protected by copyright and the features justifying its protection are clearly defined.&#8221;</em></p></blockquote>
  636. <h2>Technical Matters</h2>
  637. <p>Lubberger Lehment, the law firm acting for Axel Springer, highlights a technical aspect mentioned in the BGH decision which it believes warrants much closer attention. </p>
  638. <p>&#8220;In particular, the Higher Regional Court did not sufficiently consider Axel Springer’s argument that a browser is a virtual machine controlled by a website program as byte code. In its reasoning, the Federal Supreme Court quotes in unusual detail what we presented with the help of external experts,&#8221; their statement reads.</p>
  639. <p>The decision notes that this is not just about &#8220;changing variable data in the memory of a computer, but rather changing code created by the bytecode of the website &#8216;computer program&#8217; as a form of expression of the website programming itself.&#8221;</p>
  640. <p>For those interested in the technical argument, full details are available in the decision <em>(<a href="https://juris.bundesgerichtshof.de/cgi-bin/rechtsprechung/document.py?Gericht=bgh&#038;Art=en&#038;client=12&#038;pos=0&#038;anz=1&#038;Blank=1.pdf&#038;nr=142511">pdf</a>, German)</em>. Which elements will make or break the case, if any, is still unclear.</p>
  641. <h2>Outcome Could Have Far-Reaching Implications</h2>
  642. <p>The scale of the fallout from an Axel Springer win could be significant and given the background, hard to balance in the bigger picture. Switching to copyright law purely because competition law proved insufficient, suggests that copyright may have been viewed as a means to an end. Whether wider disruption will find balance in the benefits claimed by the plaintiffs is another question.</p>
  643. <p>Lubberger Lehment state that the case isn&#8217;t just about protecting the integrity of online media.</p>
  644. <p>&#8220;It is about the question of whether at all and in what quality online journalism can be offered and used in the future – it is about freedom of information without paywalls. This is fundamental to democracy,&#8221; the company writes.</p>
  645. <p>Whether the developer community will come to view the following in a positive light remains to be seen.</p>
  646. <p><em>&#8220;[T]he case is of fundamental importance for the entire software industry. This is because all browser applications work with the same technical components, namely HTML5, CSS, PHP, and Java Script. This affects all cloud-based applications such as computer games, standard software, SAP, etc. The ad blocker trial will determine whether this future technology is protected by copyright or can be manipulated at will by third parties.&#8221;</em></p>
  647. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  648. ]]></content:encoded>
  649. </item>
  650. <item>
  651. <title>Court of Appeals: DMCA Subpoena Shortcut to Unmask Pirates Remains Closed</title>
  652. <link>https://torrentfreak.com/court-of-appeals-dmca-subpoena-shortcut-to-unmask-pirates-remains-closed-250818/</link>
  653. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Ernesto Van der Sar]]></dc:creator>
  654. <pubDate>Mon, 18 Aug 2025 09:11:25 +0000</pubDate>
  655. <category><![CDATA[Lawsuits]]></category>
  656. <category><![CDATA[DMCA]]></category>
  657. <category><![CDATA[DMCA shortcut]]></category>
  658. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://torrentfreak.com/?p=271042</guid>
  659.  
  660. <description><![CDATA[<p>The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit has confirmed that copyright holders can't use a "DMCA subpoena shortcut" to identify internet subscribers suspected of copyright infringement. The Court sides with ISP Cox Communications, which intervened in the matter. The ruling blocks a legal tactic filmmakers have used to bypass the traditional, more expensive "John Doe" lawsuits. At the same time, it's also bad news for the MPA and RIAA.</p>
  661. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  662. ]]></description>
  663. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/dmca-1.jpg" alt="dmca" width="300" height="240" class="alignright size-full wp-image-261509" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/dmca-1.jpg 654w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/dmca-1-300x240.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/dmca-1-600x480.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/dmca-1-150x120.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />Under U.S. law, rightsholders have an option to identify alleged copyright infringers without directly having to file a lawsuit.</p>
  664. <p>Instead, they can request a DMCA subpoena which is typically signed by a court clerk and don’t require any judicial oversight. </p>
  665. <p>Specifically, they allow rightsholders to obtain the personal details of anonymous alleged infringers from third-party internet services where the infringing material was stored or shared. That includes hosting companies and social media platforms. </p>
  666. <h2>DMCA Shortcut?</h2>
  667. <p>The DMCA specifies that these subpoenas don&#8217;t apply to all online services. Mere conduit providers that simply pass on bytes are typically excluded, for example. However, that didn&#8217;t stop some rightsholders from <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/movie-company-uses-dmca-subpoena-shortcut-to-identify-pirates/">using this shortcut</a> to request information from residential ISPs. </p>
  668. <p>Drawing inspiration from the RIAA&#8217;s efforts to identify music pirates in the early 2000s, more recently they used the DMCA subpoena process to obtain the personal details of suspected copyright infringers. </p>
  669. <p>Courts in the United States <a href="https://www.internetlibrary.com/cases/lib_case310.cfm">ruled out</a> use of DMCA subpoenas in this context over two decades ago, but more recent attempts presented <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/movie-company-exposes-150-alleged-bittorrent-pirates-using-dmca-shortcut-230421/">fresh interpretations while highlighting conflicting case law</a>. Many court clerks granted these new subpoena requests, which required Internet providers to identify hundreds, if not thousands, of alleged pirates. </p>
  670. <h2>Cox Successfully Intervened, Filmmakers Appealed</h2>
  671. <p>After rightsholders obtained similarly broad DMCA subpoenas from courts around the U.S., Internet provider Cox Communications intervened in one of those cases to defend a subscriber who objected to the handover of their information. </p>
  672. <p>In common with the opposition that ruled out the use of DMCA subpoenas in the early RIAA case, the ISP argued that these subpoenas don’t apply to mere conduit providers, as defined under § 512(a) of the DMCA.</p>
  673. <p>The Hawaii District Court agreed with Cox’s reasoning last year and quashed the subpoena. The ruling concluded that DMCA subpoenas typically don’t apply to DMCA §512(a) services, but do apply to other providers that store or link to infringing content directly.</p>
  674. <p>The film companies, including Capstone Studios and Millennium Funding, didn’t give up, however. After an initial motion for reconsideration failed, they filed an appeal at the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. Among other things, the appeal argued that Cox also falls under the definition of DMCA §512(d) providers, as it can remove or disable ‘references or links’ to infringing content.</p>
  675. <p>The rightsholders further argued that DMCA subpoenas also apply to § 512(a) service providers, so should be valid for Cox.</p>
  676. <h2>Court of Appeals Keeps Shortcut Closed</h2>
  677. <p>After hearing both sides, the Ninth Circuit ruled in favor of Cox, confirming the lower court&#8217;s decision. This means that DMCA subpoenas cannot be used to compel residential ISPs to identify subscribers who allegedly pirated content. </p>
  678. <p>The Court ruled that the subpoena process is &#8220;inextricably intertwined&#8221; with the DMCA&#8217;s &#8220;notice and takedown&#8221; framework. This means that a valid subpoena can only be issued following a takedown notice that identifies content that should be removed or disabled. </p>
  679. <p>Since an ISP like Cox does not store the files users share via BitTorrent, there is nothing for it to &#8220;take down&#8221;. Therefore, a valid notification cannot be sent, and a subpoena cannot be issued.</p>
  680. <p><center><em>From the order</em></center><br /><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/nothingtotakedown.jpg" alt="nothing to take down" width="600" height="323" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-271063" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/nothingtotakedown.jpg 1353w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/nothingtotakedown-300x162.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/nothingtotakedown-600x323.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/nothingtotakedown-150x81.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></center></p>
  681. <p>The film companies had argued that by assigning IP addresses and routing traffic, Cox was effectively &#8220;linking&#8221; subscribers to infringing content. The Court rejected this argument, noting that, based on this logic, the § 512(d) safe harbor would &#8220;completely swallow&#8221; the § 512(a) safe harbor, as every ISP performs this function.</p>
  682. <p>Finally, the Court dismissed the filmmakers&#8217; argument that Cox could &#8220;disable access&#8221; via port blocking or null routing. The Court concluded that these measures would not remove the infringing material from the internet. </p>
  683. <h2>MPA, RIAA, EFF and Congress</h2>
  684. <p>The ruling is in line with previous decisions from other circuits, solidifying the use of DMCA subpoenas as off-limits.</p>
  685. <p>This is good news for subscribers who were at risk of being identified through this shortcut. Rightsholders can still request their identities, but only after filing a regular lawsuit, a more expensive process and harder to scale up. </p>
  686. <p>The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), which submitted an amicus brief in the case, previously argued that allowing these subpoenas would empower &#8220;copyright trolls&#8221; and lead to coercive settlement demands against ordinary internet users. That concern is off the table now.</p>
  687. <p>The MPA and RIAA will be less pleased with the Ninth Circuit&#8217;s decision. While they took no side in the dispute, <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/mpa-and-riaa-want-to-be-heard-in-crucial-dmca-subpoena-appeal/">they feared</a> that the lower court&#8217;s ruling against DMCA subpoenas could interfere with their efforts to obtain details of infringers through third-party services such as Cloudflare.</p>
  688. <p>The movie and music industry&#8217;s anti-piracy groups filed an amicus brief arguing for a &#8220;narrow ruling&#8221; that would not reject the possibility that an IP address could function as a &#8220;link&#8221; under the § 512(d) safe harbor.</p>
  689. <p>However, the Ninth Circuit did not issue a narrow ruling. On the contrary, it confirmed that connecting a user to the internet and assigning them an IP address does not &#8220;link&#8221; or &#8220;refer&#8221; that user to any particular infringing material. </p>
  690. <p><center><em>Link or refer</em></center><br /><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/linkorrefer.jpg" alt="link or refer" width="600" height="373" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-271066" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/linkorrefer.jpg 1472w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/linkorrefer-300x186.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/linkorrefer-600x373.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/linkorrefer-150x93.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></center></p>
  691. <p>The Court did exactly what the MPA and RIAA feared it might do. Of course, this case applies to a residential ISP, Cox, and if a similar challenge is filed in cases where Cloudflare or other providers are targeted, other arguments may be brought to the table. </p>
  692. <p>All in all, the Court of Appeals clarified that rightsholders will have to use the more expensive route if they want to identify alleged BitTorrent pirates. The Court did say that it understood the challenges rightsholders face, but stressed that these should be addressed by lawmakers.</p>
  693. <p>&#8220;We are sympathetic to this argument, but whether the DMCA provides a sufficient remedy for copyright holders to vindicate their rights against infringers using P2P networking is ultimately a question for Congress, not the courts,&#8221; the decision concludes.</p>
  694. <p><em>&#8212;</p>
  695. <p>The decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, issued on August 15, is available <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/images/capstone-cox-appeal.pdf">here (pdf)</a></em></p>
  696. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  697. ]]></content:encoded>
  698. </item>
  699. <item>
  700. <title>Sky&#8217;s Piracy=Malware Campaign Aims For &#8216;Holy Grail&#8217; of Behavioral Change</title>
  701. <link>https://torrentfreak.com/skys-piracymalware-campaign-aims-for-holy-grail-of-behavioral-change-250817/</link>
  702. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Andy Maxwell]]></dc:creator>
  703. <pubDate>Sun, 17 Aug 2025 12:28:29 +0000</pubDate>
  704. <category><![CDATA[Anti-Piracy]]></category>
  705. <category><![CDATA[bestreamwise]]></category>
  706. <category><![CDATA[Federation Against Copyright Theft]]></category>
  707. <category><![CDATA[Premier League]]></category>
  708. <category><![CDATA[psa]]></category>
  709. <category><![CDATA[Sky TV]]></category>
  710. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://torrentfreak.com/?p=270878</guid>
  711.  
  712. <description><![CDATA[<p>Since September 2023, a national campaign run by Sky and entertainment partners has attempted to convince illegal stream consumers to dump them in favor of platforms operating on the right side of the law. To encourage that important step, the BeStreamWise campaign focuses on the dangers of piracy; malware, credit card fraud, the risk of 'letting criminals in'. Through use of a particular model, the campaign hopes to achieve "the Holy Grail of behavioral change."</p>
  713. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  714. ]]></description>
  715. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/bestreamwise-s.png" alt="bestreamwise-s" width="280" height="179" class="alignright size-full wp-image-240843" />From its initial launch and relentless coverage in the media for a solid 18 months, there had to be something more to the BeStreamWise anti-piracy campaign than initially met the eye. </p>
  716. <p>Anti-piracy campaigns come and go; BeStreamWise made itself comfortable in people&#8217;s living rooms, took over the Sky remote, and even now still refuses to leave. </p>
  717. <p>Those who took refuge online found little respite. BeStreamWise has maintained a constant media presence, especially via the national tabloids, their regional partners, plus online-only publications known for their social media reach.</p>
  718. <p>Interestingly, zero coverage by the BBC. Not a word. Even more unusual given that the campaign&#8217;s partners include the BBC itself and the UK government, via the Intellectual Property Office, which prominently mentions the campaign on its website&#8230;.<em>absolutely nowhere?</em></p>
  719. <p><center><em>BeStreamWise Partners</em> [credit:bestreamwise.com]<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/bestreamwise-members-cmp.png" alt="bestreamwise-members-cmp" width="670" height="724" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271019" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/bestreamwise-members-cmp.png 670w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/bestreamwise-members-cmp-300x324.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/bestreamwise-members-cmp-600x648.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/bestreamwise-members-cmp-139x150.png 139w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 670px) 100vw, 670px" /></center></p>
  720. <p>Today we present a sample of what we have learned about the campaign and those involved since September 2023. A slightly different format than usual with plenty of images, in keeping with the campaign itself.</p>
  721. <h2>Creating the BeStreamWise Brand</h2>
  722. <p><em>&#8220;Sky partnered With marketing agency <a href="https://webershandwick.com/">Weber Shandwick</a> to create the BeStreamWise brand, educating consumers about the risks from illegal streaming websites. The Sky Anti-Piracy team needed a website to tie into a UK-wide TV, online and out-of-home advertising campaign.&#8221;</em></p>
  723. <p>Photographer <a href="https://www.henrikknudsen.com/commissions">Henrik Knudsen</a> worked with Weber Shandwick and <a href="https://niceshirtfilms.com/">Nice Shirt Films</a> to create the assets for the out-of-home and digital campaign. </p>
  724. <p><center><em>credits: webershandwick.com / henrikknudsen.com</em><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/best1-compress.png" alt="best1-compress" width="670" height="198" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271014" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/best1-compress.png 2023w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/best1-compress-300x89.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/best1-compress-600x178.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/best1-compress-150x44.png 150w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/best1-compress-1536x455.png 1536w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 670px) 100vw, 670px" /></center></p>
  725. <p>Special effects were created by <a href="https://boomcgi.com/">BOOM CGI</a> and the BeStreamWise campaign website, hosted on the Sky Websites platform, is powered by ContentStack which can provide <a href="https://www.contentstack.com/docs/personalize/experience-analytics">useful insight</a> on user interactions.</p>
  726. <p><center><em>credits:BOOM CGI / ContentStack</em><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/best2-compressd.png" alt="best2-compressd" width="670" height="177" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271017" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/best2-compressd.png 1466w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/best2-compressd-300x79.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/best2-compressd-600x158.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/best2-compressd-150x40.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 670px) 100vw, 670px" /></center></p>
  727. <h2>BeStreamWise Video Campaign</h2>
  728. <p>The BeStreamWise YouTube channel contains only three videos. The launch video (center) received relatively few views, just 2,600 in total. The 30-second campaign video (left) has performed well with 863,000.</p>
  729. <p><center><em>credit:youtube.com<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/bestreamwise-youtube.png" alt="bestreamwise-youtube" width="670" height="453" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271021" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/bestreamwise-youtube.png 879w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/bestreamwise-youtube-300x203.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/bestreamwise-youtube-600x405.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/bestreamwise-youtube-150x101.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 670px) 100vw, 670px" /></em></center></p>
  730. <p>That&#8217;s nothing when compared to the 15-second variant that is targeted, at least in part, at viewers known to have searched for infringing content. </p>
  731. <p><center><iframe loading="lazy" width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/lOZ3vSsp_CU?si=8pX31d7EtxNmuhcD" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></center></p>
  732. <p>A total of 7.6 million views so far and still counting shows the reach of the campaign. How many pirates viewed the video more than once isn&#8217;t clear but on a strict one-to-one basis, that figure is getting close to every pirate in the country.</p>
  733. <p>The big question is this: they may have seen the campaign but did they listen closely enough to <em>absorb the message?</em> For that matter, what exactly is the message?</p>
  734. <h2>Holy Grail of Campaigning &#8211; Modify People’s Behavior (COM B Model)</h2>
  735. <p>Several months ago, a Sky employee updated colleagues on a successful campaign; an anti-piracy campaign with relevance as a cybersecurity awareness drive. The campaign was described as follows:</p>
  736. <blockquote><p><em>The campaign is a fresh take on anti-piracy messaging and likens illegal streaming to leaving your digital front door open. The tag line, &#8216;Illegal Streams Let Criminals In&#8217;, acts to remind consumers of the risks involved in illegal streaming from malware and viruses to fraud, theft or even identity theft. While also directing consumers to safe and official streaming pathways</em></p></blockquote>
  737. <p>The model chosen to underpin the entire campaign is especially interesting;</p>
  738. <p><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/bestreamwise-com-b.png" alt="" width="670" height="372" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271024" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/bestreamwise-com-b.png 1321w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/bestreamwise-com-b-300x166.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/bestreamwise-com-b-600x333.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/bestreamwise-com-b-150x83.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 670px) 100vw, 670px" /></center></p>
  739. <p>The COM B (Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, Behavior) model is a behavior change framework that suggests successful behavioral modification requires the following elements <em>(descriptions tailored to the campaign, our analysis, not Sky&#8217;s)</em></p>
  740. <p>1. <strong>Capability</strong>:<br />
  741. &#8211; Psychological and general ability to perform the desired behavior<br />
  742. &#8211; Understanding that illegal streaming carries risks<br />
  743. &#8211; Understanding potential cybersecurity threats</p>
  744. <p>2. <strong>Opportunity</strong>:<br />
  745. &#8211; Social and physical environment that enables the desired behavior<br />
  746. &#8211; Availability of accessible legal streaming alternatives<br />
  747. &#8211; Highlighting easy ways to access legitimate content</p>
  748. <p>3. <strong>Motivation</strong>:<br />
  749. &#8211; Brain processes that energize and direct behavior<br />
  750. &#8211; Emotional and reflective motivation towards risk avoidance (cybersecurity threats)<br />
  751. &#8211; Fear around potential consequences of illegal streaming (malware etc)</p>
  752. <p>4.  ̶P̶R̶O̶F̶I̶T̶  <strong>Successful behavioral modification</strong></p>
  753. <h2>How Did the Campaign Perform?</h2>
  754. <p>After waiting three months in the hope that Sky would release the results to the public, we came to the conclusion that in all likelihood, the results of the campaign are probably destined for private consumption. We have no fine details but from the information available, certain targets were met and the campaign appears to have been viewed as a success.</p>
  755. <p><strong>Terms used to sum up:</strong></p>
  756. <p><em>• <strong>Earned media</strong>: Publicity through promotional efforts, not paid advertising<br />
  757. • <strong>OOH (Out-of-Home) Advertising</strong>: Billboards, street furniture, public transport etc<br />
  758. • <strong>Earned activations</strong>: Marketing initiatives that generate organic engagement<br />
  759. • <strong>Enforcement communications</strong>: See below</em></p>
  760. <p><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/besttreamwise-success.png" alt="besttreamwise-success" width="670" height="431" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271028" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/besttreamwise-success.png 1279w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/besttreamwise-success-300x193.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/besttreamwise-success-600x386.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/besttreamwise-success-150x97.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 670px) 100vw, 670px" /></center></p>
  761. <p>Whether a campaign is considered a success when measured against increased sales of legal products is never discussed in public; there&#8217;s no reason to believe BeStreamWise will be any different. Regardless of the outcome, nobody can accuse Sky of not putting in the effort and the targeting appears to have been pretty much flawless.</p>
  762. <p>Finally, a short comment on &#8216;Enforcement communications&#8217;, which appear to be linked, in whole or in part, to hundreds of mostly sensationalized, misleading, or otherwise disappointing stories in the media, concerning illegal streaming, arrests, prison sentences etc. </p>
  763. <p>Some may believe the end justifies the means, but filling the public consciousness with anything other than a best effort representation of the facts, simply kicks the piracy problem down the road for another day. </p>
  764. <p>People should be concerned about malware, credit card fraud, and identity theft, so that&#8217;s a valuable message to have sent. But take that away, people still aren&#8217;t scared about piracy.</p>
  765. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  766. ]]></content:encoded>
  767. </item>
  768. <item>
  769. <title>Why a Court Order to Block Internet Archive&#8217;s Open Library Was Put On Hold</title>
  770. <link>https://torrentfreak.com/how-a-court-order-to-block-internet-archives-open-library-was-put-on-hold/</link>
  771. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Ernesto Van der Sar]]></dc:creator>
  772. <pubDate>Sat, 16 Aug 2025 07:57:16 +0000</pubDate>
  773. <category><![CDATA[Anti-Piracy]]></category>
  774. <category><![CDATA[Site Blocking]]></category>
  775. <category><![CDATA[belgium]]></category>
  776. <category><![CDATA[internet archive]]></category>
  777. <category><![CDATA[open library]]></category>
  778. <category><![CDATA[site blocking]]></category>
  779. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://torrentfreak.com/?p=270664</guid>
  780.  
  781. <description><![CDATA[<p>Site-blocking orders are usually binary;  a court issues an order for a domain to be blocked, or it does not. In Belgium, things work differently. After we reported on a court order that compelled ISPs to block access to the Internet Archive's Open Library, a follow-up implementation order decided otherwise. Rightsholders, the authorities, and the Archive are now discussing how to move forward.</p>
  782. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  783. ]]></description>
  784. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/openliblogo.jpg" alt="open library" width="300" height="115" class="alignright size-full wp-image-270743" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/openliblogo.jpg 468w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/openliblogo-300x115.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/openliblogo-150x58.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />Early August, we reported on a <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/belgium-targets-internet-archives-open-library-in-sweeping-site-blocking-order/">remarkable court order</a> handed down by the Dutch Business Court in Brussels. It compelled internet providers, hosting companies, and other intermediaries to block access to several &#8216;pirate&#8217; sites and deny access to payment providers.</p>
  785. <p>The targeted domain names are linked to known shadow libraries such as Anna&#8217;s Archive, LibGen, and Z-Library. However, the order also listed Internet Archive&#8217;s <a href="https://openlibrary.org/">Open Library project</a> as a structurally infringing website.</p>
  786. <p>When making their case in favor of a blocking order, the plaintiffs argued that the sites&#8217; operators were difficult to reach, which the court accepted in its ruling. While this can be true for classic pirate sites, Open Library is quite approachable; it&#8217;s operated by the Internet Archive, a U.S.-registered 501(c)(3) non-profit.</p>
  787. <p>Despite this apparent conflict, the court signed off on an order that clearly requires ISPs and other companies to block access to Openlibrary.org. </p>
  788. <h2>Open Library Remains Accessible</h2>
  789. <p>After publishing our report the Internet Archive informed us that the Open Library project remained accessible in Belgium. Along with domains operated by four ‘target sites’, Open Library&#8217;s domain was listed on the master blacklist of FPS Economy, which oversees site blocking measures in Belgium. The site wasn&#8217;t actually blocked, however.</p>
  790. <p>Hoping for clarification on what had led to Open Library&#8217;s exclusion, despite the presence of a clear blocking order, we contacted the responsible Belgian federal authority. Our request remains unanswered, but an official implementation plan for the order, published last week, explains what&#8217;s going on. </p>
  791. <p>The follow-up order was published by the <em>Department for Combating Infringements of Copyright and Related Rights Committed Online and the Illegal Exploitation of Online Games of Chance</em>, which is part of a larger Belgian government ministry, FPS Economy.</p>
  792. <p><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/decision-bel4.jpg" alt="decidion" width="600" height="257" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-270748" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/decision-bel4.jpg 994w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/decision-bel4-300x128.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/decision-bel4-600x257.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/decision-bel4-150x64.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></center></p>
  793. <p>Essentially, the order from the Business Court in Brussels granted authority for the department to determine the detailed technical rules for execution of the blocking order, to ensure that blocking is effective. That process allows for reversing or pausing blocking requirements, and that&#8217;s why Open Library remains accessible. </p>
  794. <h2>New Order Defers Open Library Blocking</h2>
  795. <p>As noted earlier, the implementation order indicates that the owner of Open Library is easily identified. In fact, the Belgian authorities formally heard the Internet Archive on July 28, after the blocking order was issued. </p>
  796. <p>The original court order listed Internet Archive as the hosting service of Open Library, although it&#8217;s also the platform&#8217;s owner. Based on this information and the hearing, the blocking decision was deferred. </p>
  797. <p>The implementation order urges the Internet Archive to consult the publishers who requested the blocking measures, to see if an agreement can be reached.</p>
  798. <p>&#8220;Due to the capacity of this intermediary as website owner, the Department considers that additional consultation with the parties involved (Internet Archive, requesting parties) is necessary and that, if necessary, the implementation measures that have to be taken by this party will be determined in consultation with the parties involved in a later decision,&#8221; the order reads.</p>
  799. <p><center><em>Blocking On Hold</em></center><br /><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/iafollowup.jpg" alt="ia follow-up" width="600" height="114" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-270736" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/iafollowup.jpg 939w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/iafollowup-300x57.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/iafollowup-600x114.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/iafollowup-150x28.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></center></p>
  800. <p>Internet Archive&#8217;s Director of Library Services, Chris Freeland, informs us that since they are working with the Belgian authorities on the next steps, no further details are being shared at this time. </p>
  801. <h2>Two-Step Blocking Process</h2>
  802. <p>This new information confirms that Belgium operates a two-step process when it comes to these types of blocking orders. The original business court orders are formal but not final. They can change significantly based on a follow-up implementation order issued by Belgium&#8217;s Federal Public Service (FPS).</p>
  803. <p>In addition to the crucial pausing of blocking measures against Open Library, the follow-up order also removed intermediary Amazon as a blocking target since it provides no services to any of the targeted sites. </p>
  804. <p><center><em>Amazon is Exempt</em></center><br /><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/amazon-order.jpg" alt="amazon exempt" width="600" height="149" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-270741" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/amazon-order.jpg 937w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/amazon-order-300x74.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/amazon-order-600x149.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/amazon-order-150x37.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></center></p>
  805. <p>The order further clarifies that payment intermediaries like PayPal and Alipay will only be required to suspend services after the rightsholders share specific, detailed information (e.g., email addresses, account numbers) that allows them to reasonably identify the associated customer. </p>
  806. <p>Finally, the order notes that rightsholders can request new domains and mirror sites to be added to the blocklist, with a limit of 50 new domain names per month. Once approved by the department, these will be added to the blocklist on a monthly basis.</p>
  807. <p>All in all, it&#8217;s clear that the Belgian blocking process is more involved than a single court order. Whether Open Library will still face some level of blocking will become clearer in the days and weeks ahead. Whether details of the &#8216;consultation&#8217; will be made available to the public in the interests of transparency remains unknown.</p>
  808. <p><em>&#8212;</p>
  809. <p>A copy of the implementation decision/order, issued by the Department for Combating Infringements of Copyright and Related Rights Committed Online and the Illegal Exploitation of Online Games of Chance, is available <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/images/Decision-250730-BAP0-D-EN-004.pdf">here (pdf)</a>.</em></p>
  810. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  811. ]]></content:encoded>
  812. </item>
  813. <item>
  814. <title>New Cloudflare Pirate Site Blocking May Already Involve Thousands of Domains</title>
  815. <link>https://torrentfreak.com/new-cloudflare-pirate-site-blocking-may-already-involve-thousands-of-domains-250815/</link>
  816. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Andy Maxwell]]></dc:creator>
  817. <pubDate>Fri, 15 Aug 2025 18:33:31 +0000</pubDate>
  818. <category><![CDATA[Anti-Piracy]]></category>
  819. <category><![CDATA[Site Blocking]]></category>
  820. <category><![CDATA[Cloudflare]]></category>
  821. <category><![CDATA[error 451]]></category>
  822. <category><![CDATA[MPA]]></category>
  823. <category><![CDATA[united kingdom]]></category>
  824. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://torrentfreak.com/?p=270960</guid>
  825.  
  826. <description><![CDATA[<p>Last month Cloudflare began blocking pirate site domains already subject to blocking orders obtained years ago by Hollywood studios at the High Court in London. With no public announcement from any of the parties and no official information to accurately determine the scale, our estimate of a couple of hundred sites/domains was deliberately low. New information indicates one thousand domains is more realistic, but we can't rule out double that amount either.</p>
  827. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  828. ]]></description>
  829. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/error-451lrs.png" alt="error-451" width="300" height="233" class="alignright size-full wp-image-270969" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/error-451lrs.png 400w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/error-451lrs-300x233.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/error-451lrs-150x117.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />After 15 years of pirate site blocking by ISPs including BT, Virgin Media, Sky, TalkTalk, EE, and Plusnet, last month a new player quietly entered the UK site blocking arena.</p>
  830. <p>Cloudflare&#8217;s blocking measures in the UK were confirmed when attempts to access pirate streaming sites returned Error 451, indicating a site unavailable for legal reasons. To help visitors understand why access had been blocked, Cloudflare provided a link on its error page to legal documents referencing blocking injunctions previously obtained by Hollywood; most were several years old and none were directed at Cloudflare.</p>
  831. <h2>A Clearer, Much Bigger Picture</h2>
  832. <p>We now have a better idea of the potential scale of Cloudflare&#8217;s blocking in the UK. Our initial estimate of 200 sites/domains was based on more recent blocking instructions and was aimed deliberately low. New information suggests that the injunctions in question may have already expanded to cover more than 1,000 domains.</p>
  833. <p>The real figure could even be double that; the truth is we can&#8217;t rule anything in or out. Transparency starts and ends with the initial process, and once a blocking order has been signed, down comes the curtain. Cloudflare recently commissioned a report on the perils of mass site blocking, but our questions on the same topic remain unanswered. We didn&#8217;t ask for one, but a live list of domains requested for blocking, by whom, where, and why, isn&#8217;t expected any time soon, at least not officially. </p>
  834. <p>Meanwhile, Cloudflare has submitted some relevant information to the Lumen Database. It still falls short on detail and transparency, which requires us to make a couple of assumptions we&#8217;d rather not. Nevertheless, some information is better than the alternative; if tech companies including Cloudflare, Google, GitHub, and others didn&#8217;t contribute as they currently do, the ramifications would be significant.</p>
  835. <h2>Cloudflare Blocking Concerns Previously Obtained Injunctions</h2>
  836. <p>The notice below is one of several published on the Lumen Database during the past few days. Reportedly received by Cloudflare, each notice refers to a court order issued by the High Court on August 8, 2025, followed by a reference number, in this example IL-2021-000073. </p>
  837. <p>The entities responsible for sending the notice to Cloudflare are listed on the left.</p>
  838. <p><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/mpa-cloud-lumen-1.png" alt="mpa-cloud-lumen-1" width="670" height="805" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-270975" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/mpa-cloud-lumen-1.png 782w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/mpa-cloud-lumen-1-300x361.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/mpa-cloud-lumen-1-600x721.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/mpa-cloud-lumen-1-125x150.png 125w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 670px) 100vw, 670px" /></center></p>
  839. <p>The supporting PDF contains details of a successful application for a dynamic injunction obtained by Columbia Pictures, Disney, Netflix, Paramount Pictures, Universal City Studios, and Warner Bros. It requires the UK&#8217;s leading ISPs to block domain names linked to streaming sites with familiar brands, including 123movies, fmovies, sflix, and watchserieshd.</p>
  840. <p>In total, the injunction requires the ISPs to block 17 domains, with broadly similar numbers requested in the other injunctions submitted by Cloudflare in the same batch. </p>
  841. <p>The original orders were obtained in July 2021, December 2021, March 2023, and February 2024 respectively, but since they&#8217;re dynamic injunctions to which additional domains can be added as required, we assume they&#8217;re currently live and ongoing.</p>
  842. <p><center><em>IL-2021-000073 &#8211; One of Four Injunctions Recently Submitted By Cloudflare</em><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/mpa-cloud-order-1.png" alt="mpa-cloud-order-1" width="670" height="747" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-270976" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/mpa-cloud-order-1.png 692w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/mpa-cloud-order-1-300x335.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/mpa-cloud-order-1-600x669.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/mpa-cloud-order-1-134x150.png 134w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 670px) 100vw, 670px" /></center></p>
  843. <p>Like the example above, none of the four original orders mention Cloudflare, so we turn to the title of the notification sent to Lumen (first image above, white text on blue). Citing a High Court order issued on August 8, it seems to imply that the High Court added Cloudflare to the existing order on that date, and it&#8217;s now required to block the same domains as the ISPs. </p>
  844. <p>While it&#8217;s tempting to make that assumption, no official paperwork has been made available to support it. The difference between being compelled to block and blocking voluntarily is significant anywhere; in the UK, voluntary site blocking would be a first, for an intermediary like Cloudflare, close to groundbreaking. Until we see evidence one way or another, that question remains open.</p>
  845. <h2>Domains Listed For Blocking in the Remaining Injunctions</h2>
  846. <p>Since the remaining orders are broadly the same, with the same applicants and the same ISP respondents, we now turn to the list of domains for blocking by ISPs (plus Cloudflare, of course) attached to each of the orders.</p>
  847. <p><center><em>Schedule 1 for Each Order Containing Domains For Blocking</em><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/mpa-cloud-orders-schedules1.png" alt="mpa-cloud-orders-schedules1" width="670" height="923" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-270983" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/mpa-cloud-orders-schedules1.png 679w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/mpa-cloud-orders-schedules1-300x413.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/mpa-cloud-orders-schedules1-600x826.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/mpa-cloud-orders-schedules1-109x150.png 109w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 670px) 100vw, 670px" /></center></p>
  848. <p>Adding up the domains in each schedule and concluding that Cloudflare only has to block around 50 domains would be a mistake. These domains are the same as those present in the original orders so years later, many are lying dormant, seemingly doing very little, parked, or completely dead. </p>
  849. <p>The important domains &#8211; the ones added AFTER the injunctions are issued &#8211; don&#8217;t appear in any public paperwork in connection with any injunction, yet by volume they are by far the greatest contributors to ISP blocking lists worldwide.</p>
  850. <p>The classic &#8216;iceberg&#8217; analogy doesn&#8217;t even come close. Over 60 domains/subdomains have been blocked in the UK containing the word &#8216;bflix&#8217;, over 150 domains that contain &#8216;Putlocker&#8217;, and a mind-boggling 700+ with the term &#8216;123movie&#8217; somewhere in its domain/subdomain, with fmovies accounting for at least another 400.</p>
  851. <h2>Yet Another New Batch</h2>
  852. <p>On or around August 11, ISPs in the UK began blocking yet another batch of domains for copyright infringement. This added more than 100 new domains/subdomains to an already stacked list. </p>
  853. <p>Once again, the new list is dominated by pirate brands, including gomovies, couchtuner, 123movies, fmovies, and worthmovie, but something wasn&#8217;t performing as it should. </p>
  854. <p>When attempting to access maxflip.top, a clear blocking target for the MPA, Cloudflare&#8217;s Error HTTP 451 &#8216;legal reasons&#8217; page linked to a takedown notice that has nothing to do with blocking. Similar errors persist on other recently blocked domains, all from the most recently submitted batch. </p>
  855. <p><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/error-block-error1.png" alt="error-block-error1" width="652" height="653" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-271001" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/error-block-error1.png 652w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/error-block-error1-300x300.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/error-block-error1-600x601.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/error-block-error1-150x150.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 652px) 100vw, 652px" /></center></p>
  856. <p>Given the sheer number of blocked domains/subdomains and the endless combinations of branding options when new domains appear online, arriving at a precise number of domains blocked by Cloudflare is both difficult and time-consuming.</p>
  857. <p>Without a doubt, the biggest hurdle has always been a complete lack of transparency after initial blocking orders are issued, at a time when volume of domains blocked immediately increases. Everything happens in complete darkness so when there&#8217;s an incident, there&#8217;s very little the individual can do.</p>
  858. <p>High Court orders issued in the UK have a clause stating that anyone affected by overblocking has the right to apply to the Court to discharge or vary the order. For the average user it&#8217;s almost impossible to determine that an access failure was caused by erroneous blocking. The prospect of finding out who was responsible in order to file a complaint, is only marginally more comical than obtaining the evidence likely to be requested to show what happened.</p>
  859. <p>As blocking escalates all over the world and the associated risks to the wider internet continue to increase (see a <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/the-risks-of-pirate-site-blocking-who-benefits-who-pays-and-at-what-cost-250729/">recent report</a> commissioned by Cloudflare itself), vast sums are being spent on blocking systems and legislation in support of blocking systems that benefit relatively few companies.</p>
  860. <p>Against that backdrop of time and expense, consider this; changing a single browser setting immediately restores access to every site currently blocked by Cloudflare in the UK.</p>
  861. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  862. ]]></content:encoded>
  863. </item>
  864. <item>
  865. <title>LaLiga Warns &#8220;You Get Pirated Football, They Get You&#8221;</title>
  866. <link>https://torrentfreak.com/laliga-warns-you-get-pirated-football-they-get-you/</link>
  867. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Ernesto Van der Sar]]></dc:creator>
  868. <pubDate>Fri, 15 Aug 2025 07:07:16 +0000</pubDate>
  869. <category><![CDATA[Anti-Piracy]]></category>
  870. <category><![CDATA[LaLiga]]></category>
  871. <category><![CDATA[malware]]></category>
  872. <category><![CDATA[psa]]></category>
  873. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://torrentfreak.com/?p=270812</guid>
  874.  
  875. <description><![CDATA[<p>LaLiga has issued a stark warning to users of pirate sports streaming services. The organization behind Spain’s top football league released a new anti-piracy campaign warning that if "you get pirated football," cybercriminals "get you". An ominous video suggests that pirate services enable criminals to drain bank accounts and steal viewers' identities.</p>
  876. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  877. ]]></description>
  878. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/theygetyou-600x380.jpg" alt="they get you" width="300" height="190" class="alignright size-large wp-image-270816" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/theygetyou-600x380.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/theygetyou-300x190.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/theygetyou-150x95.jpg 150w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/theygetyou-1536x973.jpg 1536w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/theygetyou-2048x1297.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />Copyright holders have made numerous attempts in recent years to deter people from visiting pirate websites.</p>
  879. <p>Simply stating that piracy is illegal doesn’t appear to work very well, so anti-piracy messaging often tries to appeal to other emotions too.</p>
  880. <p>Anti-piracy campaigns frequently warn of the malware and security risks posed by some pirate operations, for example. These concerns are warranted as some sites and services have been associated with <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/most-popular-movie-piracy-site-ever-strongly-linked-to-global-infostealer-activity-250720/">severe security risks</a>. The ultimate goal of these campaigns is to convert pirates into legitimate subscribers.</p>
  881. <h2>&#8220;You Get Pirated Football, They Get You&#8221;</h2>
  882. <p>A few days ago, Spain&#8217;s top football league, LaLiga, launched a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JmATuf5jEKw">new PSA</a>, coinciding with the start of the new season. Their message is simple but clear: &#8220;You Get Pirated Football, They Get You&#8221;.</p>
  883. <p>LaLiga warns fans that using pirate services puts them at imminent risk, noting that criminals can gain access to sensitive personal data.</p>
  884. <p>&#8220;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,&#8221; LaLiga <a href="https://www.laliga.com/en-GB/news/laliga-warns-of-the-dangers-of-illegal-broadcasts-you-get-pirated-football-they-get-you">writes</a>.</p>
  885. <p>The campaign video, which has <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JmATuf5jEKw">embedding disabled</a>, starts with a claim that over 50% of viruses detected online come from pirate services. While we can&#8217;t find a direct source for this statement, the rest suggests that pretty much everything is at risk. </p>
  886. <p><center><em>50% of all viruses&#8230;</em></center><br /><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/50percentvisurs-scaled.jpg" alt="50%" width="600" height="330" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-270817" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/50percentvisurs-scaled.jpg 2400w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/50percentvisurs-300x165.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/50percentvisurs-600x330.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/50percentvisurs-150x83.jpg 150w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/50percentvisurs-1536x846.jpg 1536w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/50percentvisurs-2048x1128.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></center></p>
  887. <p><em>&#8220;When you stream a match on an illegal site, you&#8217;re opening your life to anyone. They&#8217;ll gain access to your phone. To your accounts, passwords, and personal emails. They can drain your bank account, steal your identity. They&#8217;ll know everything about you. Everything.&#8221;</em></p>
  888. <p><center><em>Drained bank account&#8230;</em></center><br /><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/bankdrained-scaled.jpg" alt="bank drained" width="600" height="371" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-270818" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/bankdrained-scaled.jpg 2400w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/bankdrained-300x185.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/bankdrained-600x371.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/bankdrained-150x93.jpg 150w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/bankdrained-1536x949.jpg 1536w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/bankdrained-2048x1265.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></center></p>
  889. <p>The official <a href="https://landings.laliga.com/en/antipiracy">campaign website</a> provides more context and links to third-party reports and sources, including Interpol and Europol. At the same time, it encourages the public to stay away from potential trouble and sign up for an official subscription instead.</p>
  890. <h2>Extreme?</h2>
  891. <p>While pirate sites and services can certainly pose a threat, <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/study-reveals-a-malware-problem-on-pirate-sites-but-how-bad-is-it/">they come in all shapes and sizes</a>, including some that may not immediately drain users&#8217; bank accounts. This type of nuance may not do so well in an anti-piracy campaign of this sort.</p>
  892. <p>Whether the message will be effective among fans has yet to be seen. Previously, <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/you-wouldnt-steal-research-shows-why-many-anti-piracy-messages-fail-220730/">research has shown</a> that extreme messaging can be counterproductive. Whether that will be the case in Spain will be determined by the viewers.</p>
  893. <p>Thus far, the majority of YouTube comments appear unconvinced that LaLiga cares about the security and privacy of pirates. Quite the contrary.</p>
  894. <p><center><em>YouTube comments on the official warning</em></center><br /><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/liga-comments.jpg" alt="laliga comments" width="600" height="372" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-270827" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/liga-comments.jpg 1256w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/liga-comments-300x186.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/liga-comments-600x372.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/liga-comments-150x93.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></center></p>
  895. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  896. ]]></content:encoded>
  897. </item>
  898. <item>
  899. <title>Pirate Library Operator Arrested, Study Canceled For 330K Members</title>
  900. <link>https://torrentfreak.com/pirate-library-operator-arrested-study-canceled-for-330k-members-250814/</link>
  901. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Andy Maxwell]]></dc:creator>
  902. <pubDate>Thu, 14 Aug 2025 10:25:15 +0000</pubDate>
  903. <category><![CDATA[Anti-Piracy]]></category>
  904. <category><![CDATA[Takedowns and Seizures]]></category>
  905. <category><![CDATA[pirate library]]></category>
  906. <category><![CDATA[South Korea]]></category>
  907. <category><![CDATA[Telegram]]></category>
  908. <category><![CDATA[Yubin Archive]]></category>
  909. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://torrentfreak.com/?p=270935</guid>
  910.  
  911. <description><![CDATA[<p>Launched in July 2023, Yubin Archive's popularity stemmed from its mission to "eliminate educational inequality" by providing copies of educational material to less well-off students in South Korea. Operating via Telegram, Yubin Archive had grown to over 330,000 members when its operator was arrested on Tuesday. The Ministry of Culture and Sport says others involved will be tracked down and given lessons in copyright law.</p>
  912. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  913. ]]></description>
  914. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/yubin-s.png" alt="yubin-s" width="208" height="201" class="alignright size-full wp-image-270939" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/yubin-s.png 208w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/yubin-s-150x145.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 208px) 100vw, 208px" />Piracy of movies, TV shows, music, games and similar content, purely for the purpose of recreation, is an internet wide phenomenon that would otherwise find funding from consumers&#8217; disposable income.</p>
  915. <p>Once gainfully employed, piracy of leisure products largely becomes a matter of choice. In the educational context, textbooks can be both expensive and effectively mandatory for those seeking an education, a job, and the luxury of income to spend at some point. </p>
  916. <p>For less well-off students this presents a dilemma; a) no money now and no money later either, b) go into debt and introduce a new set of problems, or c) piracy.</p>
  917. <h2>&#8220;Eliminating Educational Inequality&#8221;</h2>
  918. <p>Yubin Archive launched on Telegram in July 2023 and was an instant hit with students. Offering educational materials such as textbooks, workbooks, video lectures, and exam preparation material, its motto was <em>Eliminating Educational Inequality</em>.</p>
  919. <p>Early 2024, Yubin Archive had already amassed over 140,000 members, mostly students and of all ages. Stories of how the unofficial library had saved the day in various ways began to appear in the media. Queues to scan textbooks and have them printed onto paper were dramatically cut. Starting out with a digital copy rather than a loaned physical book yet to be scanned, let alone printed, became a thing of the past.</p>
  920. <p>A report in March 2024 reported that Yubin Archive had become popular with <a href="https://www.mk.co.kr/en/society/10960988">students at law school</a>, proof perhaps that knowledge of the law doesn&#8217;t always precede compliance.</p>
  921. <h2>Book Publishers and Government React</h2>
  922. <p>&#8220;It is not an exaggeration to say that most of the 6,000 law school students across the country have pirated files,&#8221; commented the CEO of a book publishing company early last year. </p>
  923. <p>&#8220;Although we started filing complaints in May last year [2023] and sent warnings to law schools nationwide, books published in January and February this year [2024] are already being shared as files.&#8221;</p>
  924. <p>An official from the Korea Copyright Commission warned that copying and distribution would breach copyright law, before conceding that punishing individuals could be quite difficult. </p>
  925. <p>&#8220;Private education is essential, but there are cases where sufficient education is not received due to the burden of costs,&#8221; the then-anonymous operator of Yubin Archive added. &#8220;We have opened a Telegram channel for equality in education for all.&#8221;</p>
  926. <p>As the Commission suggested, chasing down every individual involved in this type of platform isn&#8217;t feasible; recently the channel had over 330,000 members. In situations like these, it&#8217;s much more likely that those running the service and/or contributing significant content, will eventually attract enough attention to warrant an investigation.</p>
  927. <h2>Authorities Arrest Yubin Archive&#8217;s Operator</h2>
  928. <p>An official statement confirming the operator&#8217;s arrest was published locally on August 12. The timeline suggests the arrest probably took place on or around August 9. The following notice appeared on Yubin Archive on August 11.</p>
  929. <p><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/korea-copyright-warning.png" alt="korea-copyright-warning" width="670" height="403" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-270954" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/korea-copyright-warning.png 1011w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/korea-copyright-warning-300x180.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/korea-copyright-warning-600x361.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/korea-copyright-warning-150x90.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 670px) 100vw, 670px" /></center></p>
  930. <p>&#8220;The Ministry of Culture and Sports&#8217; Copyright Crime Science Investigation Team used digital science investigation (forensics) and various investigation methods to identify the core operator, conduct simultaneous search and seizure at their homes, and fully secure the Telegram criminal activities,&#8221; the Ministry&#8217;s statement reads. </p>
  931. <p><center><em>Copyright Crime Investigators search Yubin Archive operator&#8217;s home</em><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/yubin-archive-arrest.png" alt="yubin-archive-arrest" width="610" height="582" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-270961" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/yubin-archive-arrest.png 610w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/yubin-archive-arrest-300x286.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/yubin-archive-arrest-600x572.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/yubin-archive-arrest-150x143.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px" /></center></p>
  932. <p>&#8220;Investigations into accomplices who participated in the operation are also underway.&#8221;</p>
  933. <h2>Authorities Dismiss &#8216;Robin Hood&#8217; Imagery</h2>
  934. <p>While copyright infringement at scale is almost always a crime, regardless of content type or claimed good intention, having a Robin Hood character in the mix risks dilution of key anti-piracy messaging. No surprise then that much is being made of the existence of a &#8216;minority room&#8217; within Yubin Archive, access to which was only permitted upon payment of a fee.</p>
  935. <p>&#8220;The core operator of the &#8216;Yubin Archive&#8217;, who was arrested, was found to have created a separate paid sharing channel (also known as a minority channel) while promoting the illegal sharing of learning materials as a noble act to eliminate educational inequality,&#8221; the Ministry <a href="https://www.mcst.go.kr/kor/s_notice/press/pressView.jsp?pSeq=21941">notes</a>. </p>
  936. <p>&#8220;In addition, the illegal sharing channel was a criminal act that could instill incorrect copyright awareness in most users, including teenagers. The Ministry of Culture and Sports is committed to continuing its efforts to track and strictly respond to illegal activities that abuse anonymous channels such as Telegram, to protect the rights of creators.&#8221;</p>
  937. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  938. ]]></content:encoded>
  939. </item>
  940. <item>
  941. <title>Sky Chief Admits 3pm TV Blackout Fuels Piracy; Or Even Justifies It, Pirates Insist</title>
  942. <link>https://torrentfreak.com/sky-chief-admits-3pm-tv-blackout-fuels-piracy-justifies-it-pirates-argue-250813/</link>
  943. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Andy Maxwell]]></dc:creator>
  944. <pubDate>Wed, 13 Aug 2025 11:52:54 +0000</pubDate>
  945. <category><![CDATA[Piracy]]></category>
  946. <category><![CDATA[3pm blackout]]></category>
  947. <category><![CDATA[Premier League]]></category>
  948. <category><![CDATA[sky]]></category>
  949. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://torrentfreak.com/?p=270888</guid>
  950.  
  951. <description><![CDATA[<p>Sky Sports chief Jonathan Licht has added momentum to what some believe is the beginning of the end for football's 3pm 'blackout'. Speaking at Sky's Premier League launch, Licht said "it's a conversation that's coming" while effectively admitting that the restriction fuels piracy. It actually does something far worse; it provides unrivaled justification for piracy based on logic and common sense.</p>
  952. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  953. ]]></description>
  954. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/3pm-yeah.png" alt="3pm-yeah" width="180" height="275" class="alignright size-full wp-image-270889" />The most hardcore pirates rarely feel the need to justify their consumption habits. For those who are a little less militant, reasons to pirate are in plentiful supply.</p>
  955. <p>Whether it&#8217;s availability, price, inconvenience, not enough choice, or too many choices, there always a reason for piracy being the more attractive offer. </p>
  956. <p>For their part, opponents often dismiss these reasons as convenient excuses, places to hide while defending what some believe is straightforward theft. Take the same stance against a 3pm blackout &#8216;excuse&#8217; and the argument quickly hits a dead end.</p>
  957. <h2>Reason&#8217;s Big Brother: Justification</h2>
  958. <p>The 3pm blackout refers to the period when broadcasters such as SKY cannot broadcast live football to fans in the UK. </p>
  959. <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/grassroots-football.png" alt="grassroots-football" width="230" height="151" class="alignright size-full wp-image-270899" />Running from 2.45pm until 5.15pm on Saturdays, the &#8216;closed period&#8217; was originally put in place to ensure that the draw of major games on TV couldn&#8217;t deprive clubs in lower leagues of their significantly smaller audiences. </p>
  960. <p>Support for &#8216;grassroots&#8217; football may at times be presented as benevolent, charitable even, but a failure to nurture home-grown talent risks reliance on expensive imports later down the road. Short-term &#8216;gains&#8217; for not reinvesting money back into the game would&#8217;ve been worth around £170 million to the Football Association according to its last set of accounts. </p>
  961. <p>Grassroots engagement, not to mention engaging the entire country in football, generation after generation, is fundamental to ensuring healthy match attendances at every level; that leads to lucrative broadcasting rights upon which the ecosystem relies. </p>
  962. <p>The 3pm blackout protects all of that, at the expense of locking all clubs out of a local live broadcasting market, in which they could enjoy exclusivity. Yet through artificial restriction that prohibits the existence of a potentially lucrative market, fans happy to hand over their cash have become increasingly frustrated.</p>
  963. <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/3pm-n.png" alt="3pm-n" width="250" height="113" class="alignright size-full wp-image-270897" />Less invested fans in overseas markets are not only free to watch matches during the blackout, they do so legally at a fraction of the prices charged in the UK generally. </p>
  964. <p>So, if no money is made from UK fans during the blackout, piracy could be viewed as not just a reasonable option, but a logical common sense alternative.</p>
  965. <p>Can IPTV pirates offering 3pm matches hurt a market that doesn&#8217;t even exist? And when fans watch matches, is that still straightforward theft from the Premier League, for example, and if so, what exactly are they being deprived of?</p>
  966. <h2>&#8220;We Run On English Football Time&#8221;</h2>
  967. <p>For the clearest example yet that exploiting a market that doesn&#8217;t exist is a serious crime in the UK, look no further than pirate IPTV service Flawless TV. </p>
  968. <p>After its operator quipped that the Flawless team &#8220;run on English football time&#8221; and it was privately recognized that the 3pm blackout was great for business, criminal prosecutions concluded that rights can&#8217;t be exploited without first obtaining permission from the rightsholder. </p>
  969. <p>Excuses, reasons, and justification ultimately proved no match for custodial sentences totaling more than 30 years which in practical terms, failed to solve the problem. Pirates don&#8217;t just exploit artificial restrictions, they thrive on them. If there was a gap in the market, it didn&#8217;t stay that way for long.</p>
  970. <h2>Light at the End of the Tunnel</h2>
  971. <p>Speaking to the press at Sky&#8217;s Premier League launch event this week, Sky Sports chief Jonathan Licht <a href="https://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/broadcasting/sky-sports-chief-3pm-blackout-conversation-is-coming/5207756.article">added</a> momentum to what some believe is the beginning of the end for football&#8217;s 3pm TV &#8216;blackout&#8217;.</p>
  972. <p>“There’s clearly a direction of travel and lots of conversation about Saturday 3pms, and I think that will perhaps increase as we go through this cycle,&#8221; Licht said. &#8220;It&#8217;s a conversation that&#8217;s coming.&#8221;</p>
  973. <p>Talking is clearly important but admitting that a problem exists should make the conversation a little less complicated. This week, Licht effectively admitted that the restriction fuels piracy, arguably football&#8217;s biggest problem.</p>
  974. <p>“It’s fair to say that 3pms have been a point for piracy coming into this market from various places,&#8221; he said.</p>
  975. <h2>Piracy Profits From Exclusivity</h2>
  976. <p>Some might argue that refusal to serve an exclusive market is why exclusive markets shouldn&#8217;t be allowed to exist. That&#8217;s a whole new conversation but purely from the perspective of loyal fans, it actually does something far worse; it provides unrivaled justification for piracy and a gateway to even more.</p>
  977. <p>When fans offer their money and it&#8217;s refused year after year, pirate subscriptions and web-based streaming sites don&#8217;t just solve the 3pm Saturday problem, they continue to work all week. </p>
  978. <p>“There’s a real concern that despite the illegality and links to organized crime, [piracy] has been normalized. That’s dangerous for everyone, the industry and rights holders,&#8221; Licht said. So what can be done?</p>
  979. <p>“It’s all of our responsibility in the industry to tackle piracy, whether that’s lobbying big tech or engaging government,&#8221; Licht said.</p>
  980. <p>Controversial, perhaps, but is listening to the fans still an option?</p>
  981. <p>&#8211;<center><em>Fans Want to Spend Money</em><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/3pm-irritation.png" alt="3pm-irritation" width="670" height="583" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-270920" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/3pm-irritation.png 670w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/3pm-irritation-300x261.png 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/3pm-irritation-600x522.png 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/3pm-irritation-150x131.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 670px) 100vw, 670px" /></center></p>
  982. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  983. ]]></content:encoded>
  984. </item>
  985. <item>
  986. <title>Unreleased Movie Screeners Leak Online, Including Star-Studded &#8216;In the Hand of Dante&#8217;</title>
  987. <link>https://torrentfreak.com/unreleased-movie-screeners-leak-online-including-a-star-studded-in-the-hand-of-dante/</link>
  988. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Ernesto Van der Sar]]></dc:creator>
  989. <pubDate>Tue, 12 Aug 2025 08:12:15 +0000</pubDate>
  990. <category><![CDATA[Piracy]]></category>
  991. <category><![CDATA[leaks]]></category>
  992. <category><![CDATA[news]]></category>
  993. <category><![CDATA[screener]]></category>
  994. <category><![CDATA[screeners]]></category>
  995. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://torrentfreak.com/?p=270785</guid>
  996.  
  997. <description><![CDATA[<p>Just weeks before its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival, Julian Schnabel's star-studded film 'In the Hand of Dante' has suffered a major setback after a high-quality screener copy leaked online. The leak is not an isolated incident as copies of other unreleased movies have also appeared online, some of which also have an Italian connection. </p>
  998. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  999. ]]></description>
  1000. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/handdante.jpg" alt="dante" width="300" height="224" class="alignright size-full wp-image-270843" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/handdante.jpg 516w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/handdante-300x224.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/handdante-150x112.jpg 150w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/handdante-200x150.jpg 200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />Next month, American filmmaker Julian Schnabel will be honored with the <em>Cartier Glory to the Filmmaker</em> award at the prestigious <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/82nd_Venice_International_Film_Festival">Venice Film Festival</a>. </p>
  1001. <p>Schnabel&#8217;s latest film <em><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1333644/">In the Hand of Dante</a></em> will have its world premiere at the festival, with a star-studded cast including Oscar Isaac, Al Pacino, Gal Gadot, Gerard Butler, Jason Momoa, and Martin Scorsese, who is also credited as executive producer. </p>
  1002. <p>So far, very little official footage from the film has been released to the public; not even a trailer. Yet through unauthorized channels, including public pirate sites, a full screener copy leaked online a few days ago.</p>
  1003. <p>The pirated copy lists &#8220;a friend&#8221; as the source, without further context. Aside from the opening and closing scenes, the film is in black and white and clearly lists a &#8220;for screening only&#8221; watermark, as shown below. </p>
  1004. <p><center><em>In.the.Hand.of.Dante.2025.1080p.SCREENER.WEB-DL.X264.AC3</em></center><br /><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/dantescreen.jpg" alt="dante" width="600" height="322" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-270838" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/dantescreen.jpg 1906w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/dantescreen-300x161.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/dantescreen-600x322.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/dantescreen-150x81.jpg 150w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/dantescreen-1536x825.jpg 1536w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></center></p>
  1005. <p>A high-profile leak of this nature is concerning, all the more so because it&#8217;s not the only screener that was released by over the past few days. Copies of other unreleased films including <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt36778421/"><em>The Best Thing About Christmas</em></a>, <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt35890662/"><em>Agon</em></a>, <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt36850385/?ref_=nm_knf_t_1"><em>Life Is</em></a>, and <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt37061136/"><em>Extreme Family</em></a> also appeared online. </p>
  1006. <p>These are mostly independent films with relatively small budgets and limited promotion. </p>
  1007. <p>What further stands out is that several titles have an Italian connection. <em>In the Hand of Dante</em> is based on a novel about the famous Italian poet and was filmed in Sicily, Venice, and Rome. <em>The Best Thing About Christmas</em> is a project from Italian director Paolo Genovese, while <em>Agon</em> is an Italian production directed by Michele Riondino.</p>
  1008. <p><em>Life Is</em> by prominent Mexican director Lorena Villarreal doesn&#8217;t have an obvious Italian connection. Instead, the leaked screener copy has an &#8220;EFICINE Producción&#8221; watermark, referring to the fiscal stimulus program for movies in Mexico.</p>
  1009. <p><center><em>Life.Is.2025.1080p.SCREENER.WEB-DL.X264.AC3</em></center><br /><center><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://torrentfreak.com/images/efficinelifeis.jpg" alt="life is" width="600" height="322" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-270837" srcset="https://torrentfreak.com/images/efficinelifeis.jpg 1985w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/efficinelifeis-300x161.jpg 300w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/efficinelifeis-600x322.jpg 600w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/efficinelifeis-150x80.jpg 150w, https://torrentfreak.com/images/efficinelifeis-1536x823.jpg 1536w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></center></p>
  1010. <p>Finally, it&#8217;s worth highlighting that we also spotted an screener release of Michael Shanks&#8217; horror movie <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt31184028"><em>Together</em>,</a> which premiered earlier this year at the Sundance Film Festival and is currently in theaters.</p>
  1011. <p>What is clear is that someone with either authorized or unauthorized access to these screener copies is leaking them to the public. This is <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/pirated-screeners-of-falling-and-my-salinger-year-leak-online-early-201021/">reminiscent</a> of <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/toronto-film-festival-asks-google-to-remove-links-to-leaked-netflix-screeners-210915/">earlier</a> screener <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/netflix-movie-screeners-leak-on-pirate-sites-before-official-premiere-210913/">leaks</a> by the group EVO, which shared similar advance copies before the group <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/authorities-arrested-leaders-of-prolific-piracy-release-group-evo-230315/">was busted</a> in late 2022. </p>
  1012. <p>For these independent titles, a pre-release leak can be financially devastating, impacting potential distribution deals and box office returns. Understandably, the creators and rightsholders of the recently leaked films will be determined to find out where the current breach originated. </p>
  1013. <p>From: <a href="https://torrentfreak.com/">TF</a>, for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.</p>
  1014. ]]></content:encoded>
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