MultiChoice Ghana Intensifies Fight Against Cross-Border Decoder Piracy and Illegal Streaming

MultiChoice Ghana today announced an escalation in its ongoing efforts to combat the rampant cross-border decoder piracy and illegal streaming of its DStv, GOtv, and Showmax content.

This intensified crackdown aims to protect intellectual property rights, safeguard investments in quality content, and ensure a fair viewing experience for legitimate DStv subscribers. This activity has become necessary following the recent seizure of 1200 DStv Nigeria decoders illegally smuggled into the country.

Similarly, in a collaborative effort with the Cybercrime Unit of the Ghana Police, several streaming sites and content-sharing platforms on Telegram and YouTube were also taken down and their owners arrested. Illegal streaming occurs when unauthorised devices and services are used to access copyrighted content without a valid subscription, either via an app or platform. These streaming services pose a serious threat to the entire film and television industry.

On the other hand, the importation and distribution of decoders in Ghana is regulated by the National Communications Authority (NCA) through the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011 (LI 1991), and thus requires one to get proper authorisation from the NCA to import and distribute decoders in Ghana. However, MultiChoice Ghana has observed an increase in the distribution and sale of DStv Nigeria decoders in Ghana without proper authorisation. Such illicit activities not only lead to substantial revenue losses to the state firstly but also expose MultiChoice Ghana to possible copyright infringement and revenue losses.

“The widespread use of illegally imported decoders and streaming services is a direct assault on the integrity of our industry and the hard work of thousands of individuals who bring premium local and international content to life,” said Alex Okyere, Managing Director, MultiChoice Ghana. He adds, “We are committed to deploying advanced technologies, collaborating with law enforcement agencies across borders, and pursuing all available legal avenues to dismantle these criminal networks and protect our valuable content.”

Furthermore, these acts of piracy stifles innovation, jeopardise jobs within the creative industries, and ultimately undermine the ability of broadcasters to produce and acquire the high-quality programming that viewers value. MultiChoice Ghana’s enhanced anti-piracy strategy includes:

• Advanced Technological Solutions: Investing in cutting-edge anti-piracy technologies, including sophisticated content identification, digital watermarking, and real-time monitoring to detect and disrupt illegal streams and unauthorised decoder usage.
• Strengthened Cross-Border Cooperation: Working closely with local and international law enforcement agencies, regulatory bodies, and industry partners to share intelligence, coordinate raids, and pursue legal action against cross-border piracy syndicates.
• Legal Action and Prosecution: Vigorously pursuing legal action against individuals and organisations involved in the manufacture, distribution, sale, and operation of pirated decoders and illegal streaming services. This includes both civil lawsuits for damages and supporting criminal prosecutions.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating consumers about the risks associated with illegal streaming and pirated decoders, including poor picture quality, unreliable service, security vulnerabilities, and the legal consequences of engaging in such activities.
• Improved Accessibility and Value: Continuously evaluating and enhancing legitimate service offerings to ensure competitive pricing, flexible packages, and a superior user experience, thereby reducing the incentive for piracy.

MultiChoice Ghana urges all consumers to choose legitimate sources for their entertainment to support the Ghanaian economy and creative industry and preserve genuine Ghanaian jobs. MultiChoice Ghana reminds the viewing public that using pirated decoders or engaging in illegal streaming is a criminal offence with severe penalties, including hefty fines and imprisonment.

“Our renewed commitment to combating piracy is not just about protecting our business; it’s about protecting the future of the creative industry for everyone.” MultiChoice believes in a vibrant and sustainable creative economy where content creators are fairly remunerated for their work.

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