Spain is positioned as one of the European countries with the lowest consumption of illegal content on the Internet, occupying fifth place among the countries with the least access to this type of material. According to the latest report from the Intellectual Property Office of the European Union (EUIPO) on online piracy, Spanish users access illegal content 8,5 times a month, a figure significantly lower than the European average, which is 10,3 times a month..
Key findings of EUIPO report on piracy in the EU
Prepared by the authors based on the official report of the EUIPO
The study, which analyses the internet consumption habits of users aged between 15 and 74, highlights the following key points:
1. Stabilization of illegal consumption
Overall piracy increased until the end of 2021 and has since stagnated, standing at a average of 10.3 illegal accesses per user per monthWhile illegal access to television content has shown a slight increase, the decrease in the consumption of other types of content, such as films, has balanced the scales.
This phenomenon is mainly attributed to factors on the table:
- The popularization of legal platforms like Netflix or Prime Video.
- Awareness campaigns on the legal and economic consequences of piracy.
2. Piracy of television programs
La Television leads illegal consumption, representing 50% of all illegal access, i.e., 5.1 monthly visits to pirate sites per user.
The report also highlights that television content continues to attract interest because:
- Many popular shows and series are only available on specific platforms, leading users to seek illegal alternatives.
- La diversification and increase in streaming platforms, which causes users to resort to piracy to avoid paying multiple subscriptions.
3. Streaming is the preferred method
Streaming remains the predominant medium for consuming illegal content. Pirate IPTV platforms no longer just allow immediate access without downloads, they now also imitate legal services in their interface and user experience, which makes them more attractive, increasing visits to these sites by 10% in the last year.
4. Specific trends by type of content
- Piracy in cinema decreased, possibly due to the almost imminent availability of films after their release.
- La The music and the with increase, driven by ease of access to shared files and specialized websites.
- Unauthorized access to live sports broadcasts also continues to grow.
- Illegal consumption of books, magazines and other texts remained stable.
Towards more responsible consumption
The report shows a encouraging outlook, with signs of stabilization and even reduction in certain categories of illegal consumption. A reflection of the moving towards greater use of legal services.
However, the path to completely eliminating piracy requires a profound cultural changeIt is essential that users understand the impact of the piracy and adopt habits that value and respect the work of creators. Hence the importance of educational initiatives, Together with Strengthening attractive and accessible legal alternatives to combat this situation.
Alberto Gallo, Legal Area Associate, Antipiracy.
