New Study Shows Filipino Consumers Who Access Piracy Sites and Services at Severe Risk of Cyber Threats
A recent study commissioned by the Motion Picture Association (MPA) reveals that Filipino consumers who access piracy sites face significant cyber threats, including identity theft and ransomware. The research indicates that Filipinos are up to 33 times more likely to encounter cyber threats on popular piracy sites compared to legal film and TV websites. These findings were presented during an anti-piracy symposium organized by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), the Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE), GMA Network, Inc., and Globe Telecom. The study, authored by Dr. Paul Watters of Macquarie University, emphasizes the urgent need for effective measures to protect consumers, particularly younger users, from the dangers of piracy sites. Recommendations include enacting site-blocking laws, increasing funding for law enforcement to enhance digital forensics, and developing national awareness campaigns. IPOPHL’s Director General, Rowel Barba, highlighted the importance of institutionalizing site-blocking regimes to protect consumers and support the creative economy. Karyn Temple of the MPA noted that site blocking is a proven tool in combating piracy, especially in regions where major piracy sites operate from abroad. The study also underscores the necessity of raising consumer awareness, particularly among teens and pre-teens, to mitigate cyber risks associated with piracy.
