Italy Strikes Major Blow to Piracy, Shuts Down Massive Streaming Network
Italian authorities have dealt a significant blow to online piracy, dismantling a vast network responsible for approximately 70% of Italy's illegal streaming activity. The operation, which involved the arrest of eight key figures, has resulted in the shutdown of a major platform distributing content from major providers like Sky, DAZN, Mediaset, Prime Video, and Netflix.
The network, estimated to have caused monthly damages exceeding €30 million to the audiovisual industry, was an organised criminal association with a complex technical infrastructure. It operated on a massive scale, with over 900,000 users and estimated profits of €10 million. The international arm of the network, the Calcio platform, was based in Moldova and provided unauthorised access to major sports events. It was shut down in September 2025 following a joint investigation by the Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE) and DAZN.
Sky Italia has praised the operation, describing it as a significant step in combating piracy and protecting jobs in the industry. Those arrested face charges including criminal association, unauthorised computer access, and computer fraud.
The dismantling of this extensive network is expected to have a substantial impact on the illegal streaming market in Italy. The arrest of its leaders sends a strong message to those involved in such activities, and the industry hopes that this will lead to a significant reduction in piracy.
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