What's happened
Singapore has intensified its crackdown on illegal streaming devices, recently convicting a seller under new copyright laws. Despite this, experts warn that such devices remain widely available online, posing ongoing challenges for enforcement and consumer safety.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to the South China Morning Post, the recent conviction in Singapore is a 'landmark prosecution' that could deter future illegal sales. However, experts like Mok Ho Fai from the Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment express concern over the shift of sales to online platforms, stating, 'While the landmark prosecution... one cause for concern is the shift of illegal streaming device sales to online marketplaces.' Meanwhile, Ars Technica highlights the growing popularity of VPNs as a workaround for accessing restricted content, noting that 'any VPN... only works until it doesn't,' emphasizing the ongoing cat-and-mouse game between content providers and users seeking to bypass restrictions. Business Insider UK discusses the competitive landscape of VPN providers, suggesting that discounts and promotions may drive more users to seek legal alternatives for streaming content.
How we got here
The rise of illegal streaming devices has prompted authorities in Singapore and other Southeast Asian countries to strengthen copyright laws and enforcement measures. Recent convictions signal a shift in tackling piracy, but challenges persist.
More on these topics
-
Netflix, Inc. is an American technology and media services provider and production company headquartered in Los Gatos, California. Netflix was founded in 1997 by Reed Hastings and Marc Randolph in Scotts Valley, California.