ED begins probe against mobile apps in broadcast rights violation case
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated a money-laundering investigation against eight mobile applications, including Fairplay, for allegedly re-broadcasting Indian Premier League (IPL) matches without proper authorization, infringing upon Viacom18’s broadcast rights. This action follows an April 2023 First Information Report (FIR) filed by Maharashtra’s cyber police, highlighting concerns over digital piracy and intellectual property rights violations. The Fairplay app is reportedly linked to the Mahadev Open Book (MOB) platform, which has been under ED scrutiny for illegal online betting activities since 2022. The state cyber police are also conducting their own investigation into this matter. (Hindustan Times)
