Piracy has a long history and it still continues to exist up to today. Illegal copying and distribution of copyrighted materials have been overlooked that regular pirates consistently download without hesitation. In fact, online piracy is that kind of copyright infringement that is difficult to stop. However, with the technological advancements and other anti-piracy measures implemented, the issue can be controlled.
A film is an art form expressed by visionaries like filmmakers and writers. This type of business is commercial and continues to grow internationally. So, there are a lot to consider and one important element is the use of a property owned by a third party. It’s where film copyrights, trademarks, and business names come into play. And seeking permission is necessary.
In the survey
When regular movie buffs were surveyed about pirating movies, most said they download movies illegally almost every month. The main reason is content availability. And it’s not just about playing the movie in every area but mostly making it available at the same time like the rest of the world.
Legal alternatives
As streaming services for music and movies decrease online piracy, some anti-piracy efforts fail gradually. Here are a few examples:
1. Internet filter
Living in an area where you are restricted from watching what you like does not feel good. Internet filters or website blocking is a way that allows or blocks users from accessing specific web pages. Although this works best as parental control, it will only make internet users wiser. Also in effect, more businesses could capitalize in piracy.
2. Notice scheme
Most times, the warnings that infringers receive serve as just that, a warning. The notice scheme makes people remain confident about doing illegal activities because they can be excused for a few times. Also, Internet Service Providers (ISPs) do not fully support this scheme.
Make content available
Year 2015 is the rise of Submission Videos on Demand (SVOD) services like Netflix. It was so big that it contributed to the decrease of online piracy. Even streaming services like Spotify helped lessen the number of active pirates from around 5 million in 2008 to 1.8 in 2012.
The most effective way to reduce film piracy is by making content easily available the same time it is shown all over the world. Affordability of access also plays an important role as it competes with not paying at all. Not all who pirate copyrighted materials are serial pirates. They probably acquired the act due to unavailability of specific content in their area. If given the option to pay for it, they probably would.