Belgium launches #PlayFair initiative to combat illegal streaming

The Belgian government, through the Ministry of Economy and the Conseil Supérieur de l’Audiovisuel (CSA), has launched a national initiative called #PlayFair to combat digital piracy and illegal IPTV services. The campaign is a collaborative effort involving the Pro League, the Belgian Cinema Federation (FSB), and various media organizations.

Authorities aim to promote legal streaming platforms while warning the public about the risks associated with unauthorized services. Officials emphasize that illegal streaming is not a victimless crime; it is linked to organized crime, money laundering, and tax evasion, which harms the national economy. Furthermore, users of pirate platforms face significant personal security risks, including identity theft.

Reports indicate that approximately 650,000 people in Belgium may be using illegal IPTV subscriptions. In response to the growing market, the Economic Inspection service has already shut down 2,031 illegal websites over a two-year period.