Sharing passwords online is causing a big problem and losing the streaming industry a lot of money every year. This issue has been going on for a while, but it got much worse during the Covid pandemic. In two surveys of people in the United States, the number of people sharing passwords went up from 27% before Covid to over 40% between 2019 and 2021. Even though it’s not as bad now, it’s still a huge loss of money for the industry.
The latest information tells us that around one out of every three Netflix users and one out of every four Amazon Prime Video users share their accounts with others. This is similar for people who use other popular services like Hulu, Disney+, and Paramount+.
This sharing of passwords is more common among younger people. When we looked closely at how different generations feel about sharing video service passwords, we found that 60% of Millennials said they share passwords with family, and 42% share them with friends. No matter who is doing it, the amount of money being lost because of this is really big.
Revenue loss from sharing passwords
In January 2023, Netflix estimated that more than 100 million households share passwords. Even if they share with just one other person, and everyone is using the company’s $9.99 per month basic plan, that results in a loss of nearly $1 billion per month or $12 billion per year.
Here’s another piece of data: In March 2021, Citi analyst Jason Bazinet estimated that sharing online passwords for subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) services leads to a massive $25 billion yearly loss for US companies.
As streaming services have become more important, stopping this kind of theft is becoming increasingly crucial for shareholders. When SVOD services were still growing, the major providers didn’t pay a lot of attention to monitoring password sharing. They almost saw it as a way to promote their services unofficially, thinking that users, especially within families, would eventually get their own accounts.
For example, HBO’s CEO, Richard Pleper, said in 2014, “It’s not that we’re ignoring it, and we’re looking at different ways to affect password sharing. I’m simply telling you: it’s not a fundamental problem, and the externality of it is that it presents the brand to more and more people, and gives them an opportunity hopefully to become addicted to it. What we’re in the business of doing is building addicts, of building video addicts. The way we do that is by exposing our product, our brand, our shows, to more and more people.”
But things have changed. Netflix is now taking a strong stance against password sharing, and it will be implemented globally in 2023. After testing various methods in Latin America in 2022, they have decided to make it easier for those who borrow (defined as people who don’t live in the account holder’s household) to transfer their Netflix profile to their own account. Sharers will have better control of their devices and can create sub-accounts (extra members) if they want to pay for family or friends.
In the trials, if a change in location for an account is detected for more than two weeks, the account holder will receive a notification in the app. They can then choose to change their household address or pay a fee to add the new address. Additional homes can be added for $2.99 a month, with Basic plan members able to add one extra home, Standard up to two extra, and Premium up to three extra.
Netflix’s new co-CEO, Greg Peters, expects this move to be met with some resistance, similar to how Netflix’s price increases are often met. He described this initiative as a way to gently encourage people who share their accounts to pay for users outside their own household.
So, what should companies do to protect their own revenues?
How to detect password sharing
There are several ways to detect password sharing, and many of them now use AI. They do this by looking at things like where and how content is being watched on different devices.
By analyzing what content is being watched, which device it’s being watched on, and where it’s being watched from, a detection service can find patterns that suggest password sharing. The AI then gives the service provider a score to indicate how likely it is that the account holder is sharing their password too much.
Certain patterns can show password sharing, but it’s important to tell the difference between legitimate and illegitimate cases. For example, if many devices are detected in one household, it could be because a user changed devices. But if the content meant for one household is being watched from different IP addresses, it’s likely due to password sharing. Since usage patterns change, machine learning and AI are important to sift through the data, adapting to these changes and distinguishing between legitimate and unauthorized use.
There are different levels of infringement. If the score suggests that credentials have been sold online to multiple users, the service provider can choose to close the accounts. However, if the score is lower and it seems like a family is just too generous with their credentials, the service provider can use this as a chance to offer a premium package to the family.
This is the approach that some major players are currently taking, gently guiding users to make the right, legal choice. They are being careful about it because adding barriers, like two-factor authentication, can be unwelcome to new users, and people are very sensitive when it comes to streaming services. High churn levels, possibly increasing during a recession, mean any obstacle is not ideal.
Competition in the streaming space is intense, and a lot of money is spent on content. So, the days of freely sharing passwords may be ending. For investors looking for returns in the industry, this is an important area for potential subscriber growth. While it might be tempting for other providers to ignore this issue, especially if they want to attract subscribers from services that are cracking down, they may soon find themselves out of sync with the industry consensus.
Service providers who want to protect their content need comprehensive anti-piracy services, and that increasingly includes dealing with password sharing.
File security is like a shield for your computer. It helps keep your stuff safe from bad people. In our blog today, we will talk about what file security is, how it’s different from data security, and what you can do to keep your files safe.
In our digital world, almost everything we do uses files. We send messages, share photos, and do many things using files. These files often have important information that we want to keep private and protect to stay ahead.
What Is File Security?
File security is all about keeping your files safe from people who shouldn’t see them. It stops them from getting in, changing, deleting, or hurting your files. It uses strong rules and controls to do this. File security is used for things like documents with private information, important business stuff, and even government secrets.
Files come in different shapes and sizes, like documents, music, videos, and databases. Sometimes, we need to share files with others while working on projects. But, doing this can be risky, especially when we send files outside our company or save them on a faraway computer.
Just like locking up important papers, file security helps protect sensitive things like your personal info, company secrets, and even records of what happens on your computer.
File security mostly looks after the computers in your system, making sure that the files are safe. On the other hand, data security takes care of data in different situations: when it’s just sitting there, when someone is using it, and even when it’s moving from one place to another.
Data security is like a superhero that also deals with copyright protection, known asdigital rights management (DRM).DRM allows someone to see a file, but it stops them from copying, printing, or taking pictures of it. This is useful for protecting things like movies and music from being illegally shared or copied.
The Difference Between File Security and Data Security
File security is a part of data security, so they are related. Data security is like a big umbrella that covers a lot of things. Is like a smaller part of it, focused on keeping individual files safe.
Think of files as the building blocks of data storage. We organize them in folders and directories, which are like digital folders, similar to how we group similar things together in computer code.
File security works closely with these folders. It uses things like encryption to make files hard to read and lets you set specific rules for who can see them. It also creates extra copies of your files to make sure you don’t lose them.
Data security, on the other hand, looks after data wherever it is, whether it’s resting, being used, or moving around. It also deals with things like copyright protection, which can allow someone to use a file but prevents them from copying, printing, or taking pictures of it.
Data security is more important today with so many devices and computers connected to the internet.
Why Is File Security Important?
File security is important because it stops bad people from doing bad things. It’s like having a lock on every important room in your house. It doesn’t let anyone have full access to everything, but keeps each room safe.
For example, if you’re in charge of a big database, you might have some rules to keep it safe. File security adds an extra layer of protection by making sure each file inside that database is secure.
File security is especially crucial for places like banks, government offices, and healthcare providers who handle a lot of important records. Without it, your financial and health information, like your social security number, could be easy to get for anyone who can open that database.
In general, file security gives us a few big benefits:
Privacy: It keeps your private stuff safe, especially when it comes to health or personal records. This stops others from using your information for bad things.
Confidentiality: This is a fancy word for keeping things secret. File security ensures that no one can see or use your data without permission.
Protecting Intellectual Property: If you have a great idea or secret that makes your company special, file security keeps it safe.
Following the Rules: Governments worldwide make rules to keep your data private. If you follow these rules, you don’t get into trouble or pay fines. File security helps you follow the rules.
Keeping a Good Reputation: Without good file security, a data breach can hurt your reputation with customers, partners, and the public. It’s like having a leak in your roof; it makes everyone unhappy.
File security is super important because it makes it really hard for hackers to do bad stuff. It’s like having many layers of protection for your files, and it ensures that each individual file is safe, even if some bad actors try to get in.
For example, let’s say you have a big database with lots of information. Your IT experts can set rules to keep it safe, but file security adds an extra layer of protection to make sure each file inside that database is also secure.
This need for file security is even bigger for places like banks, government offices, and healthcare providers because they deal with a lot of secret records. Without file security, important financial and health data, like social security numbers, could be easily accessible to anyone who gets into the database.
Now, let’s talk about some good practices, tools, and ways to make file security better:
Strong Passwords and Multifactor Authentication: Use tough-to-guess passwords, and add an extra layer of security with something like a code sent to your phone.
Access Control Lists (ACLs): These are like digital locks that say who can use a file and what they can do with it. This helps control who can read or edit a file.
File Monitoring: It’s like having someone watch over your files. If anything strange happens, like someone trying to copy or change a file, you get a warning. Some tools can even erase files that are moved to the wrong place.
Cloud and File Sharing Security: Use safe cloud storage services and tools that check files for malware. They should let you store files safely and use passwords to protect them.
Software Tools for Secure File Sharing: Some software can keep your files safe while you share them with others. They prevent others from snooping or messing with your files during transfers.
Backup and Recovery: Make sure you have copies of your files in case something goes wrong. Being able to get your files back is just as important as keeping them safe.
VPNs: Virtual private networks help protect your files when you’re working outside your office network, like at a coffee shop with open Wi-Fi. It’s especially important when you’re using public networks.
How Sigma DRM/Multi DRM Can Help Fortify Your File Security
Sigma DRM/Multi DRM is the world’s number 1 solution for copyright protection for publishers, copyright owners of football TV shows, sports, movies, etc. your business from theft of intellectual property, digital content on the internet environment.
In an era where data is the lifeblood of business operations, safeguarding sensitive information has never been more critical. The digital age has brought about countless advantages in terms of information access and distribution, but it has also exposed companies to new threats. To counteract these threats effectively, organizations are increasingly turning to a powerful synergy: combining Data Loss Prevention (DLP) and Digital Rights Management (DRM) solutions.
The Data Security Conundrum
Protecting data is a multi-faceted challenge. It involves securing data against unauthorized access, sharing, or leakage while ensuring that authorized users can access and use it seamlessly. The complexity of this task arises from the need to strike a delicate balance between security and usability.
Data Loss Prevention (DLP)
DLP solutions are designed to monitor, detect, and prevent unauthorized data transfers or access. They typically work by analyzing data as it moves within or outside an organization’s network and applying policies to prevent leaks, whether intentional or accidental. DLP tools excel at identifying sensitive information and restricting its flow to unauthorized parties.
On the other hand, DRM is a technology that focuses on controlling and managing the rights associated with digital assets. It is primarily concerned with defining who can access specific content, what they can do with it, and for how long. DRM solutions excel at protecting intellectual property, ensuring that only authorized users can access and use content as per the defined rights.
Bridging the Gap
While DLP and DRM address distinct aspects of data security, they can be mutually reinforcing when used in tandem.
1. Protecting Data at Multiple Levels
DLP solutions guard against data leaks and unauthorized access, but they may not always manage how authorized users handle the data. This is where DRM comes into play. DRM can encrypt files and assign access permissions, even after the data leaves the organization’s network. It ensures that only authorized users can open, modify, print, or share the data in ways compliant with organizational policies.
2. Ensuring Secure Collaboration
In today’s collaborative business environments, the need for data sharing and collaboration is paramount. DLP alone might hinder this by blocking data transfers to authorized users. By integrating DRM into the system, organizations can enable secure collaboration. DRM can allow specified users to access sensitive data for a defined period while keeping the content secure from unauthorized sharing.
3. Tracking and Auditing Data Usage
DLP systems are excellent at monitoring and alerting administrators to potential data breaches. However, they may fall short in providing a complete picture of how data is used once accessed by authorized personnel. DRM solutions can offer comprehensive tracking capabilities, enabling organizations to audit data usage, understand user behavior, and maintain a record of who did what with the data.
Implementing a Holistic Approach
To combine DLP and DRM effectively, organizations should follow these steps:
1. Identify Data Sensitivity
Start by classifying your data based on sensitivity. DLP is most effective when it is focused on the most critical information, while DRM can be used to protect intellectual property, financial data, and other sensitive assets.
2. Define Data Usage Policies
Clearly define and implement data usage policies that dictate who can access specific data and what they can do with it. These policies should be enforced by both DLP and DRM solutions.
3. Integration and Training
Choose DLP and DRM solutions that can be seamlessly integrated with your existing infrastructure. Ensure that your employees are adequately trained to understand and use these tools effectively.
4. Continuous Monitoring
Regularly monitor and update your data security strategy to adapt to changing threats and business requirements. Technology evolves, and so should your security measures.
Conclusion
The combination of Data Loss Prevention and Digital Rights Management can greatly enhance data security for organizations of all sizes. By bridging the gap between securing data from unauthorized access and protecting it from misuse by authorized users, this holistic approach offers a comprehensive solution to the complex challenges of data security in the digital age. To ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive data, organizations must embrace this synergy and continue to adapt their security strategies to the ever-evolving threat landscape.
In recent years, the surge in popularity and profitability of streaming video services has been remarkable. The digital media landscape has witnessed the emergence of diverse monetization models, including Free Ad-Supported Television (FAST), Advertising Video on Demand (AVOD), and Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD) models.
However, this evolution has also created new avenues for pirates to illicitly access premium digital content, making the industry vulnerable to piracy and unauthorized distribution. To combat these threats, it is imperative to establish a robust, multifaceted, and scalable content security framework that can accommodate various content distribution and ad-generation models, ultimately envisioning a piracy-free content consumption environment. In this context, let’s explore the different OTT content distribution models and underscore the vital role that content security plays in enhancing the user experience.
AVOD vs SVOD vs FAST : How are FAST, AVOD and SVOD different?
What is Free Ad-Supported Television (FAST)?
Free Ad-Supported Television (FAST) is a model in which streaming services offer free video content supported by advertising. This model has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years, with platforms like Pluto TV, Roku Channel, and XUMO gaining substantial traction. FAST is an attractive choice for viewers who prefer not to pay for premium content but are willing to tolerate advertisements.
FAST operates on the principle of scale to generate revenue from advertisers. As more viewers consume content, the ad inventory expands, thereby attracting more advertisers to the platform. Since the advertising revenue is shared with the content providers, FAST presents a mutually beneficial solution for all parties involved.
What is AVOD?
Advertising Video on Demand (AVOD), in contrast, permits viewers to access premium video content at no cost, with the condition that they watch advertisements. This model represents a step up from FAST, featuring higher-quality content and a more sophisticated advertising approach that tailors ads to the viewer’s preferences and demographics. A prime example of an AVOD streaming platform is YouTube.
AVOD can prove to be a lucrative model for both the service provider and content creators, as advertising revenue can be shared between them. However, the success of AVOD hinges on the platform’s ability to attract and retain a substantial audience, a task made challenging by the competitive nature of the market.
What is SVOD?
Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD) is a model in which viewers subscribe and pay a fee to access premium video content without encountering advertisements. This model has gained widespread popularity through services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+. The appeal of SVOD lies in its provision of exclusive content, tailored recommendations, and an uninterrupted, ad-free viewing experience.
The revenue generation of SVOD hinges on nurturing a dedicated subscriber base. To achieve this, these services make substantial investments in creating original content to maintain subscriber engagement. The drawback of SVOD is that the subscription fees can be relatively high, potentially limiting the size of the potential audience.
Why FAST and AVOD need Multi-DRM and Forensic watermarking
While the primary revenue model for FAST and AVOD platforms is advertising, they still have an interest in protecting the value of their content and maintaining positive relationships with content owners. Therefore, they employ multi-DRM systems, either in-house or through third-party providers, to strike a balance between content protection and accessibility for their audience.
Implementing multi-DRM solutions allows these platforms to apply encryption and access controls to their content, limiting unauthorized viewing or copying. It helps prevent piracy and protects the rights of content owners. Additionally, multi-DRM solutions enable content providers to enforce usage policies, such as limiting the number of devices that can access the content simultaneously or setting expiration dates for downloaded content.
Forensic Watermarking, is other techniques can be employed to track and identify illicit distribution of content.
Sigma multi-DRM supports FAST, AVOD and SVOD models that allows your content business to maximize scalability and revenue potential through the OTT video route, all along ensuring a top-notch user experience. The security framework is flexible enough to enforce concurrent streaming experience across devices while providing premium user experience.
In conclusion, the choice of monetization model depends on the goals of the content provider. FAST and AVOD are great options for content providers who want to reach a large audience, while SVOD is ideal for those who want to generate revenue from a loyal subscriber base. Ultimately, the success of any model relies on the quality of the content and the ability of the platform to attract and retain viewers.
In May 2017, the world was rocked by a cyberattack of unprecedented scale. WannaCry, a malicious ransomware, infected hundreds of thousands of computers in over 150 countries, causing chaos and financial losses. It was a wake-up call for governments, businesses, and individuals worldwide, highlighting the vulnerability of our interconnected digital world. Now, six years later, it’s time to reflect on the lessons learned and the progress made in defending against ransomware.
WannaCry’s Rampage
WannaCry, also known as WCry or WannaCrypt, targeted Windows operating systems, exploiting a vulnerability in the Windows Server Message Block (SMB) protocol. It spread rapidly, locking users out of their computers and demanding a ransom in Bitcoin to unlock their files. Its global impact was so severe that it crippled critical infrastructure, including healthcare systems in the UK, and cost businesses an estimated $4 billion.
Lessons Learned
WannaCry: Ransomware Defense, Six Years On
WannaCry exposed several critical weaknesses in our cybersecurity infrastructure:
Outdated Software: One of the primary reasons for WannaCry’s widespread success was the prevalence of outdated and unpatched Windows systems. Organizations and individuals who failed to keep their systems up to date were left vulnerable.
Lack of Cyber Hygiene: Weak cybersecurity practices, such as poor password management and the absence of data backups, made it easier for ransomware to infiltrate systems.
Global Interconnectedness: The interconnectedness of the digital world allowed the rapid spread of WannaCry across borders, emphasizing the need for international cooperation in combating cyber threats.
Defending Against Ransomware
Since WannaCry, significant efforts have been made to improve ransomware defense:
Patch Management: Organizations and individuals have become more proactive in keeping their software up to date. Frequent security updates and patches have become a norm, closing vulnerabilities that ransomware could exploit.
Backup and Recovery: Regular data backups and disaster recovery plans have gained importance. With the ability to restore data from backups, the leverage that ransomware attacks have is diminished.
Advanced Security Tools: The development and adoption of more sophisticated cybersecurity tools, including AI-based threat detection, has improved our ability to identify and mitigate ransomware attacks.
Cybersecurity Education: Increased awareness and education about ransomware and other cyber threats have empowered individuals and organizations to recognize and respond to potential attacks.
Challenges and Evolving Threats
Despite the progress made in ransomware defense, the threat landscape continues to evolve. Ransomware attacks have become more sophisticated, and threat actors have adapted their tactics to exploit emerging vulnerabilities.
Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS): Criminals can now purchase or lease ransomware kits, lowering the barrier to entry for cybercriminals. This has led to a proliferation of ransomware attacks.
Double Extortion: Ransomware gangs have adopted double extortion tactics, stealing sensitive data before encrypting it. They threaten to release the data if the ransom is not paid, making victims more likely to comply.
Targeted Attacks: While WannaCry was widespread, many modern ransomware attacks are highly targeted, focusing on specific organizations to maximize the potential payout.
Looking Ahead
The WannaCry incident was a turning point in the fight against ransomware. It forced governments, law enforcement agencies, and cybersecurity professionals to recognize the urgency of the threat and collaborate on solutions. However, the battle is far from over, and ransomware remains a formidable adversary.
To stay ahead of ransomware attacks, a comprehensive approach is essential:
Continued Education: Individuals and organizations must stay informed about evolving threats and best practices in cybersecurity.
International Cooperation: Cyber threats are global, and international cooperation is crucial to track and apprehend cybercriminals.
Innovation: Cybersecurity tools and techniques must evolve to counter increasingly sophisticated ransomware attacks.
Preparedness: The best defense is a good offense. Organizations should develop and test incident response plans to minimize damage in the event of an attack.
Six years after WannaCry, the world has come a long way in defending against ransomware. However, the threat remains, and vigilance is essential. The lessons learned from WannaCry serve as a stark reminder that in the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity, there is no room for complacency.
Free Ad-Supported Television (FAST) has transformed the content consumption landscape, providing a wide array of shows and channels without the requirement of a subscription. FAST platforms have experienced a significant surge in popularity in recent years. In this blog post, we will delve into the importance of original, plagiarism-free content for the triumph of FAST and examine strategies to safeguard this invaluable content.
Why Content is Crucial for FAST Channel?
Viewer Engagement: Content serves as the lifeblood of any television platform, and the same holds true for FAST. Captivating and enjoyable content is the key to fostering viewer loyalty. By offering a diverse array of shows and movies, FAST channels can effectively cater to a wide-ranging audience, thereby boosting viewer engagement.
Advertising Revenue: FAST channels heavily depend on advertising revenue to sustain their free services. Exceptional, original content not only attracts more viewers but also creates additional advertising opportunities. Advertisers are more inclined to invest in platforms that boast a committed and engaged audience, a feat achievable through compelling content.
Competitive Edge: In the competitive streaming market, original content sets FAST channels apart. Exclusive shows and movies not only draw in new viewers but also retain existing ones. This competitive advantage can enable FAST channels to distinguish themselves and gain a larger market share.
Data Utilization: Content consumption yields invaluable data that can be harnessed for targeted advertising. Through the analysis of viewer preferences, FAST platforms can deliver more pertinent ads, elevating the user experience and enhancing the effectiveness of advertisements.
Why is Content Security Essential for FAST Channels?
Why and Ways to Safeguard Content for Enhanced Performance
Viewer Engagement: Content is the lifeblood of any television platform, and this rings true for FAST as well. Engaging and enjoyable content is the cornerstone of building viewer loyalty. FAST channels can enhance viewer engagement by offering a diverse range of shows and movies that cater to a broad audience.
Advertising Revenue: The sustainability of FAST channels heavily relies on advertising revenue. Unique and original content not only attracts more viewers but also creates additional opportunities for advertising. Advertisers are more inclined to invest in platforms with a dedicated and engaged audience, which is achievable through the delivery of compelling content.
Competitive Advantage: In the fiercely competitive streaming market, original content provides a distinctive edge to FAST channels. Exclusive shows and movies not only attract new viewers but also retain existing ones. This competitive advantage positions FAST channels to stand out and gain a larger market share.
Data Utilization: Content consumption yields invaluable data that can be leveraged for targeted advertising. By analyzing viewer preferences, FAST platforms can deliver more relevant ads, thereby enhancing the user experience and increasing the effectiveness of advertisements.
Ways to Protect FAST Channel (Free Ad-supported Streaming TV)
Digital Rights Management (DRM): Implementing DRM technologies can prevent unauthorized copying and distribution of content. These systems can encrypt content and control access, ensuring that only authorized viewers can enjoy it.
Content Watermarking
Watermarking content can deter piracy and unauthorized sharing. Visible or invisible watermarks can be added to videos to mark them as proprietary, discouraging viewers from attempting to redistribute the content.
Content Licensing
One of the most effective ways to protect content is by securing proper licensing agreements. FAST platforms should negotiate deals with content creators and copyright holders to ensure legal access to their content. This prevents unauthorized use and distribution.
Regular Audits
FAST platforms should conduct regular audits of their content libraries to identify and remove any infringing or plagiarized materials. This proactive approach can help maintain the integrity of the platform.
Explore the effectiveness of Securing OTT content with Multi-DRM, providing enhanced protection against unauthorized distribution and piracy
User Reporting
Prompt users to report any questionable or infringing content they encounter. Creating a transparent reporting system and addressing copyright violations is crucial for safeguarding content on the platform.
Legal Measures
When faced with significant copyright infringement, it may be imperative to take legal action. FAST platforms should maintain legal teams prepared to initiate action against individuals or entities who breach copyright laws.
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