In an international joint action, the Federal Police and other police forces removed 675 websites and 14 illegal streaming apps from the air, in addition to arresting eight suspects in Brazil and in Argentina. The operation, part of the call Operation 404focused on combating digital piracy, specifically the illegal distribution of content such as films, series, music and games.
Prisons in Brazil and Argentina
Five people were arrested in Brazilwhile three others were detained in Argentina. In Brazil, only one arrest was the result of a preventive arrest warrant, while the other four suspects were caught in the act. The action marks a significant phase of Operation 404, which aims to combat crimes against intellectual property and ensure compliance with copyrights.
Removal of Pirated Content
In addition to taking down websites and applications, the operation also resulted in the removal of audio, video and game content hosted on illegal servers. The affected pages were deindexed from search engines and removed from social networks, making access to these pirated materials difficult. According to the government, digital piracy causes great damage to the economy, directly affecting the creative industry and the rights of authors and artists.
Impacts on the Economy and Creative Industry
THE Ministry of Justice stated that the practice of digital piracy brings significant damage to the cultural sector and the creative industry. In addition to direct economic losses, the negative impact also affects professionals who depend on copyright to support their creations. “The losses for the cultural and creative sector are significant, but the damage goes beyond the economic impact,” stated the ministry.
Malware Risks on Pirated Sites
An alarming aspect of this operation is that many of the piracy sites were also involved in spreading virus and malware. This malware left users’ computers vulnerable to cyber attacks, such as data theft and invasions, further exposing the risk of consuming content from illegal platforms.
Prison in Buenos Aires: Piracy Scheme
In Argentinathe Federal Policel, in cooperation with local authorities, arrested suspects of being part of an international piracy scheme. One of the individuals arrested in Buenos Aires was a key player in the illegal content distribution operation, demonstrating the transnational reach of the operation. International cooperation was essential to the success of the operation.
International Cooperation to Combat Piracy
THE Operation 404 was coordinated by the Cyber Operations Laboratory of the National Public Security Secretariat, of the Ministry of Justice. Civil police from nine Brazilian states participated in the action, with the support of agencies from five countries, including Argentina, the United Kingdom, the United States, Peru and Paraguay. This broad cooperation was crucial to the operation, allowing the execution of warrants and the takedown of illegal platforms.
Participation of International Entities and Associations
The operation had the support of several international associations and entities dedicated to the defense of copyright. Among those involved were the City of London Police, the US Department of Justice, the Premier League, as well as associations from Latin America and the European Union. The participation of so many entities reinforces the global dimension of the fight against digital piracy.
Copyright Defense Entities in Brazil
In Brazil, the Brazilian Pay Television Association (ABTA) and the National Council to Combat Piracy (CNCP) were some of the bodies that participated in the operation. They work together with other national and international entities to ensure that the rights of producers, artists and distributors are respected, combating piracy on different fronts.
The Importance of Operation 404
THE Operation 404 highlights the importance of international cooperation in combating digital piracy and cybercrime. Removing illegal websites and applications not only protects copyrights, but also reduces the risk of cybercrime, such as the spread of malware. Furthermore, the action serves as a warning to users about the dangers of consuming content from pirated platforms.
Continuity in the Fight against Piracy
The success of Operation 404 demonstrates that efforts against digital piracy are intensifying. Authorities warn that new phases of this operation will continue to be carried out to combat the illegal distribution of digital content and protect both the economy and user safety.
Summary for those in a hurry:
- THE Operation 404 took down 675 websites and 14 illegal streaming apps.
- Eight people were arrested: five in Brazil and three in Argentina.
- Pirated content was removed from servers, searches and social networks.
- THE piracy causes great damage to the economy and the creative industry.
- Pirated websites also distributed malware, exposing users to cyber risks.
- The operation involved international cooperation, involving five countries and several copyright protection entities.
Source: Atrevida
Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.
