MultiChoice intensifies fight against cross-border decoder piracy and illegal streaming
MultiChoice Ghana has ramped up its crackdown on the growing problem of decoder-based piracy and illegal streaming involving its platforms DStv, GOtv, and Showmax. The escalation comes after 1,200 DStv Nigeria decoders were seized, having been smuggled into Ghana without authorization .
Working closely with Ghana’s Cyber‑Crime Unit, MultiChoice also targeted and shut down several unauthorized streaming sites hosted on Telegram and YouTube, with the operators arrested . Ghana’s National Communications Authority (NCA) regulates decoder imports under the Electronic Communications Regulations (2011), and MultiChoice noted a concerning rise in unauthorized imports, leading to both revenue losses for the state and copyright infringements .
Alex Okyere, Managing Director of MultiChoice Ghana, emphasized that piracy undermines the integrity of the industry, threatening jobs and innovation in the creative sector. In response, MultiChoice is adopting a multifaceted anti-piracy strategy, including:
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Advanced technological tools: implementing content identification, digital watermarking, and real-time monitoring to counter unauthorized streaming.
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Cross-border collaboration: coordinating with local and international enforcement agencies and regulators to share intelligence and conduct raids.
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Legal enforcement: pursuing both civil and criminal proceedings against those involved in pirated decoders and streaming.
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Public awareness: educating consumers about piracy’s legal consequences, risks to service quality, and platform security concerns.
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Enhancing legitimate services: improving packaging, pricing, and user experience to discourage piracy .
MultiChoice urged consumers to use official services in order to support Ghana’s economy, uphold creative industry integrity, and protect local jobs.
