Irdeto and Premier League join multinational operation targeting crypto-funded content piracy
Irdeto and the Premier League have joined a multinational enforcement operation targeting piracy networks funded through cryptocurrency. The initiative involves cooperation between cybersecurity experts, law enforcement agencies, and international rights holders to dismantle illegal streaming services that use crypto payments to hide financial transactions and avoid detection.
According to the report, many large-scale piracy operations rely on cryptocurrency to process subscription fees, purchase hosting services, and move profits across borders anonymously. This makes it difficult for authorities to track revenue streams and identify operators behind illegal IPTV platforms and streaming sites.
The operation focuses on tracing crypto transactions, seizing digital assets, and shutting down infrastructure linked to pirate services distributing Premier League matches and other premium content. Several arrests and platform disruptions have already taken place, with investigators targeting both operators and key facilitators such as resellers and payment processors.
The Premier League and Irdeto emphasize that crypto-funded piracy causes major financial losses to broadcasters and sports organizations, undermining investment in clubs, athletes, and youth development. They state that coordinated international action is essential, as piracy networks operate across multiple jurisdictions and use sophisticated technology to evade enforcement.
The initiative marks a significant escalation in anti-piracy efforts, combining cybersecurity expertise with financial tracking to disrupt the economic foundations of illegal streaming.
