WAVES 2025: Experts Discuss 'Piracy: Safeguarding Content through Technology' with Insights on Legal, Cybersecurity, and Enforcement Strategies

At WAVES 2025, a critical panel discussion titled "Piracy: Safeguarding Content through Technology" convened global leaders in media, law, and cybersecurity to tackle the escalating challenge of digital piracy. Moderated by Neil Gane, Vice President and Head of Asia Pacific at IP House, the session underscored piracy as a mainstream threat requiring a coordinated, multi-faceted response.

Economic Impact of Piracy

Vivek Couto, Managing & Executive Director of Media Partners Asia, highlighted the severe economic toll of piracy.

“Online piracy is expected to cost the industry over 10% in lost revenue between 2025 and 2029,”

he stated. However, he also pointed to the potential benefits of robust anti-piracy measures, noting,

“Effective anti-piracy enforcement could drive a 25% increase in legal video service users and unlock a US$ 0.5 billion boost in content investment, raising the total value to US$ 3.8 billion by 2029.”

Couto urged stakeholders to shift the narrative from protection to opportunity, especially as India’s digital video economy grows.

Piracy and Cybercrime

Dr. Shruti Mantri, Associate Director at ISB Institute of Data Science, drew attention to the overlap between piracy and cybercrime.

“Piracy often involves malicious tools like trojans, ransomware, and spyware. Users between 18–24 years old are particularly vulnerable,”

she explained. Advocating for prevention through education, she called for public awareness campaigns and announced a Digital Piracy Summit by ISB, in collaboration with CBI and Interpol, scheduled for July 9–10.

Anti-Piracy Strategies in Sports

Anurag Kashyap, Head of Anti-Piracy Operations at DAZN, shared insights from the sports sector.

“Our strategy is built around the three Ds: detection, disruption, and deterrence. We start enforcement even before the event goes live,”

he said. He emphasized the role of invisible watermarking in tracking leaks, a key tool in their proactive approach.

Legal Enforcement and Proactive Measures

Anil Lale, Head-Legal at Jio Hotstar, stressed the need for stronger enforcement.

“The biggest deterrent is prosecuting the pirates. Law enforcement must identify the source of leaks and stop playing catch-up,”

he asserted, advocating for a proactive rather than reactive approach to prevention.

Technology and Judicial Reform

Praveen Anand of Anand and Anand Associates highlighted the dual role of technology and legal reform in combating piracy.

“Tools like AI, blockchain, and watermarking are crucial. But we must also make camcording difficult with measures like metal detectors. Timely legal action is essential to create deterrence,”

he noted, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach.

A Unified Approach

The panel unanimously agreed on the necessity of a united front, combining technology, legislation, enforcement, and public awareness to safeguard the digital content economy. Discussions like these at WAVES 2025 continue to highlight actionable strategies for addressing the Media and Entertainment industry’s most pressing challenges.

Stay tuned to GKboard.in for more updates from the WAVES Summit and insights into the evolving media landscape!