A recent study published by researchers at CEPS highlights the limitations of the blocking strategies implemented to counter audiovisual piracy in Europe. This report demonstrates that current methods are not only ineffective but also easily bypassable in a few clicks, thus exposing the ineffectiveness of IP and illegal streaming blocks.
Blocks put to the test of circumvention
Blocking initiatives have multiplied throughout the European Union to combat audiovisual content piracy. However, the study shows that these blocks are often ineffective. With simple and accessible techniques, users can easily bypass the systems set up to restrict access to illegal content.
One of the main reasons for this inefficiency lies in the increasing sophistication of VPNs and encryption tools that allow users to mask their true IP address. These technical solutions make it virtually impossible to detect users engaging in piracy, rendering the implementation of blocking devices futile. This is a reality that calls into question current approaches based on restrictive methods.
Coercive measures that worsen the situation
The pressure exerted by regulatory bodies and rights holders, such as Canal+, has often led to radical and costly solutions. By targeting Internet service providers and alternative DNS services directly, these measures add layers of complexity that harm the Internet as a whole, making perfectly legitimate sites and services inaccessible.
Thus, when platforms like Google or Cloudflare face blocks, it is ultimately millions of users who suffer. The consequences of these measures have led to negative reactions from consumers, whose experiences are limited by these excessive methods of fighting piracy.
The role of accessible legal offerings
The report also points out that the real solution to piracy lies in improving the legal offering. With the emergence of services like Netflix, increased accessibility and competitive pricing have proven to be viable alternatives to pirated content. Indeed, the legal availability of quality content could reduce the desire to resort to piracy.
Revealing figures of change
Between 2017 and 2023, statistics show a drastic decrease in film piracy in Europe, falling from 2.6 to 0.9 monthly visits per user. This positive trend is attributed not to coercive measures but to the rise of accessible and affordable streaming services. A recent study reveals that 43% of Internet users who engage in piracy claim they would stop if they had access to cheaper offerings.
This gradual dismantling of illegal practices underscores the importance of adopting an approach that does not solely rely on repression, but rather promotes the acquisition of legal content to meet consumer demand.
Urgent need for a reevaluation of strategies
Ultimately, the conclusion is clear: the blocking strategies in place in the European Union do not meet expectations. Rather than continuing to invest in measures that yield only limited results, it is crucial that policymakers and rights holders reconsider their methods. The report’s recommendations suggest fundamental changes in the approach to regulating content consumption.
It is essential to establish a more balanced framework that takes into account the realities of the current digital market. Furthermore, implementing prior judicial review of blocking orders and holding rights holders accountable in cases of over-blocking could ensure better regulation without harming legitimate Internet actors.
