Risks of piracy

Digital piracy is a growing global issue. It has been estimated that the size of this underworld industry will reach $125 billion by 2028, with movies and TV shows representing a massive 92% of video piracy demand.

As Africa’s leading provider of video content, MultiChoice has a major role to play in fighting piracy. Content theft affects the entire entertainment industry, leading to revenue losses that destroy content-sector jobs, hurt creativity, and lead to less choice for viewers.

Content pirates are also often part of organised-crime networks, and use their pirate platforms to commit financial fraud, steal identities or install malware on user devices.

At MultiChoice, we take your security seriously. We only carry legitimate, licensed, fully paid-for content. We work with partners like cybersecurity firm Irdeto to ensure the integrity of our platforms, and we protect your information using state-of-the-art security features.

Protection methods

Our platforms use cutting-edge encryption to protect your personal data and payment information. MultiChoice adheres to the highest global security standards to prevent unauthorised access and to protect user details whether you're watching the latest blockbuster or tuning into live sports.

AI technology is now able to scour the web and detect any content that is similar to copyrighted MultiChoice material. Automated tracing can then track down the perpetrators of content piracy, to get them to desist or even have them arrested.

MultiChoice has specialised anti-piracy teams working around the clock to detect and disrupt piracy networks. We collaborate with global industry leaders to identify pirated content and take immediate action. We issue take-down notices to sites carrying stolen content and we work with law enforcement to protect our customers and ensure that they have access to secure, premium entertainment.

Subscriber payments are processed through trusted, industry-compliant and data-secure gateways like Visa, Mastercard, and PayPal. This ensures that your financial information is never compromised, and you can enjoy your favourite shows with full peace of mind.

Education is also key in the fight against piracy. Our Pirates Against Piracy (PAP) initiative therefore helps consumers to identify and avoid pirated content and emphasises the importance of supporting the entertainment industry legally and ethically. By making responsible choices, you help protect jobs, the creative industry, and the future of equality entertainment.

How to protect yourself from piracy
To keep yourself and your family safe from content piracy, always stream content from authorised, licensed sources like DStv, Showmax, and BoxOffice. Avoid sites that offer “free” versions of the latest shows or movies they often come with hidden risks like malware and data theft. If it seems too good to be true it is!

Remember to constantly update your devices and your apps, to ensure you always have the latest security patches and antivirus software. This will help protect you from cyberattacks and potential data breaches – and keep you one step ahead of the content pirates.

If you come across suspicious websites or services offering unauthorised access to MultiChoice content, report it to us immediately. Working together, we can help reduce piracy, bring pirates to justice and keep the entertainment ecosystem safe.

Also, be cautious of fake emails, messages, or pop-ups that claim to offer free content. These phishing scams are often designed to steal your personal and financial information.

MultiChoice is dedicated to providing secure, high-quality entertainment. Spread the word to your friends and family. Together, we can create a safe, secure digital world where entertainment thrives. Visit

https://www.multichoice.com/partners-against-piracy.php for more information on how to stay safe online.

Report Piracy: 
International Hotline - +27 11 289 2684 
piracy@multichoice.co.za