Internet piracy via streaming devices threatens Hong Kong’s creative industry

The local copyright industry discovered last September that about 20 brands of infringing streaming devices were on sale in 87 shops across the city.

Most of these devices have pre-installed infringing apps for unauthorised access to copyright content. Third-party infringing apps can also be downloaded from app stores.

The recent court case has ascertained that streaming devices with applications that allow access to TV channels or films without a legitimate subscription are indeed illegal. But consumers have yet to realise the legal consequences. Copyright holders are entitled to seek civil compensation from both buyers and users of these devices.