The authorities have been fighting against piracy for around fifteen years now by using a system of blocking domain names. These methods certainly curb the use of illegal services, but they are easily circumvented. Indeed, these portals are often reborn in the form of mirror sites. As for Internet users, they often use VPNs or DNS to circumvent these policies.
The ultimate weapon against piracy?
Far from being discouraged, the authorities and rights holders are now considering an even more intrusive strategy to block IPTV. Blocking tests on Internet core routers are now underway.
In an interview given to Tele.SinteseArtur Coimbra, member of the board of directors of Anatel, the National Telecommunications Agency of Brazil, said more about this initiative. The idea is therefore to act directly on the infrastructure made up of optical fiber cables and central routers. A method which can clearly raise questions and which could expose users who have nothing to do with hacking to unforeseen malfunctions or bugs.
The manager explains: “The second step, which we still have to evaluate, because some companies want it, and others are more hesitant, is to allow Anatel to have access to the central routers to place a direct order on the router”.
Companies would be invited to give a “limited access” to let the authorities block equipment “not certified and not approved” from a distance. Artur Coimbra adds:
Participation is voluntary. We are still testing some companies. So it will be a while before this actually happens. I can’t say how long it will take. Our inspection team is doing tests with some operators, I can’t say which ones.
In any case, the movement seems to be well underway. According to him, Spain and Portugal could be tempted by such strategies, even if he is not able to confirm this information.
Block IPTV boxes remotely?
Clearly, the Brazilian authorities seem to be angry against IPTV. Recently, Anatel organized a hackathon on site. The objective of this event was to motivate participants to find a way to block illegal IPTV boxes remotely.
The organization also considered that these uncertified devices “pose risks to consumers and to Brazil’s telecommunications infrastructure”. More information in our previous article here.
What do you think of these increasingly radical ideas to fight against IPTV? Tell us in the comments.
