Pre-empting video piracy in the streaming TV era

Tim Mulligan

May 2023

Video piracy had been downgraded as a significant disruptive risk in the era of subscription video on demand (SVOD) and free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST). While peer-to-peer file-sharing piracy is a declining niche activity at penetration, streaming piracy is has slightly increased to as the cost-of living crisis and recessionary fears increase the use case for piracy among digital entertainment consumers. IP holders ultimately need to integrate post-ad and post-subscriber monetisation models into either their own, or their partner distribution platforms. In this way they can outcompete the pirated distributors by offering de-commodified, fan-centric experiences.

Companies and brands mentioned in this report: IBCAP, NAGRA, Netflix, Screen iL, and

Methodological note: Due to the sensitivity of fielding questions to elicit self-reported consumer behavioural insights on piracy, streaming piracy is defined as accessing streaming TV shows without ads or login details being used.

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