The topic I discuss here revolves around the escalating piracy of movies and TV series. The root of this issue can largely be traced back to the changing dynamics within the streaming industry—marked by increasing prices, the introduction of ads, restrictions on password sharing, device limitations, and the fragmentation of content across a plethora of new streaming platforms.
This evolving landscape has led to a widespread sentiment, often echoed across social media and forums: “I’d rather pirate shows than subscribe to 3-4 different streaming services.” But is this assertion backed by data? Is piracy indeed on the rise as a result? While I do not condone piracy, it’s crucial to examine the data to validate this hypothesis. Interestingly, even as Netflix’s revenue climbs with each feature restriction (like password sharing) and the addition of ads, the trend towards increased piracy usage seems to align.
According to data from MUSO Kearny’s report, “Piracy Data: A Multi-Billion Dollar Opportunity,” available at PCMag, piracy has seen a substantial increase of about 36% since 2020, with the highest number of visits coming from the United States.
What factors or events have spurred this surge in piracy? Several actions taken by the most popular paid streaming services have significantly contributed:
- Netflix: Netflix, with its vast array of content, has implemented blocks on password sharing and introduced ads in its most affordable plans, leading to a notable increase in piracy. Despite releasing a wide variety of enticing TV series and movies, the company’s decision to cancel popular series without resolution has left many viewers hanging and possibly more inclined to resort to piracy.
- HBO Max: Once celebrated for its premium content, HBO Max has seen a gradual decline in its library, with many of its initially available cartoons and popular movies disappearing. Some speculate that this reduction is a strategic move to decrease tax liabilities. Moreover, certain TV series that were once available on HBO Max are now virtually inaccessible, with no DVDs, Blu-rays, or alternative streaming options, pushing viewers towards piracy.
- Disney+: Similarly, Disney+ has removed several titles from its library and increased subscription prices, which has likely contributed to the rise in piracy.
Research from as early as 2021 has consistently shown that limiting access to movies and TV series fosters an increase in piracy (TechXplore). Furthermore, a 2023 study suggested that allowing password sharing could actually reduce piracy (TheStreamable). Despite these findings, Netflix and other streaming platforms continue to enforce restrictive measures.
In conclusion, the rise in piracy can be directly linked to the current state of streaming services, marked by increased fragmentation and changing access policies. This article has laid out the evidence and opinions that point towards a significant correlation between service restrictions and the inclination of users to turn towards piracy. It’s clear that as streaming platforms adjust their strategies—whether by limiting sharing capabilities, increasing prices, or fragmenting content—the repercussions on consumer behavior, particularly piracy, are profound and immediate.
