The report, titled “The Rob Report,” highlights the growing threat piracy poses to the media and entertainment sector, calling for immediate action to address the issue.
Piracy remains a significant concern, particularly with 62% of consumers believing that stricter enforcement measures are necessary to combat it. The report shows that pirated content from movie theatres contributes Rs 13,700 crore in losses, while OTT platforms account for Rs 8,700 crore. In addition, potential GST losses amounting to Rs 4,300 crore were estimated.
Streaming services are the most affected, with 63% of pirated content accessed through these platforms. Mobile apps, social media, and torrent sites contribute the remaining share. Despite a 150% increase in subscription revenues post-pandemic, managing multiple subscriptions, unavailability of desired content, and high fees drive users towards piracy.
Rohit Jain, Chairman of IAMAI’s Digital Entertainment Committee, said, “The growth potential of India’s digital entertainment sector, projected to reach Rs 14,600 crore by 2026, is severely threatened by piracy. A coordinated effort between government bodies, industry players, and consumers is essential to safeguard this growth.”
The report reveals that 64% of those who consume pirated content would switch to legitimate channels, even with ads, if provided for free. Additionally, 84% prefer not to pay for movie tickets, and 70% resist paying for OTT subscriptions, reflecting a strong demand for cost-free entertainment.Mukul Shrivastava, EY’s Partner and Forensic M&E Leader, emphasised the need for stronger collaboration and technological solutions to combat piracy. “While efforts have been made, they remain fragmented. It is essential for the industry to push for stronger regulations and enforcement while leveraging technology to protect intellectual property.”The report finds that piracy is most common among individuals aged 19-34, with women more likely to consume OTT shows, and men inclined towards older films. Additionally, 40% of pirated content is in Hindi, followed by 31% in English. Piracy is also more prevalent in Tier II cities due to limited access to authorised content and lower awareness of piracy’s consequences.
Deterrence efforts have largely focused on individual concerns, such as ethical considerations, legal consequences, and fears of malware. However, the report stresses the need for a comprehensive strategy, including large-scale awareness campaigns, better pricing models, and global regulatory enforcement, to effectively combat piracy.
