Italy dismantles major streaming piracy network worth €300 million

Friday 22 May 2026 - 09:00

Italian authorities have dismantled a large-scale streaming piracy network accused of causing approximately €300 million in losses to major entertainment and media companies.

According to Italy’s financial police, the operation targeted a sophisticated illegal system that allowed users to access subscription-based streaming platforms without authorization. The investigation focused on technology linked to an application known as CINEMAGOAL, which allegedly connected devices to foreign servers capable of illegally decoding protected digital content.

The piracy network reportedly enabled users to watch films, television channels, sports events, and music streaming services at significantly reduced prices compared to legitimate subscriptions. Authorities stated that the system continuously retransmitted access credentials obtained through fraudulent methods, making detection more difficult for streaming companies.

Several major international platforms were affected, including Netflix, Spotify, The Walt Disney Company, and sports broadcasting services operating across Europe.

Italian prosecutors worked in cooperation with European authorities, including judicial agencies in France and Germany, to seize servers and digital infrastructure connected to the operation. Investigators also confiscated software source codes believed to have been used to bypass security systems protecting copyrighted content.

Experts say digital piracy remains a major challenge for the entertainment industry as streaming services continue to expand globally. Illegal platforms often attract users by offering cheaper access to premium content, despite significant legal and cybersecurity risks.

Authorities stressed that the investigation reflects broader European efforts to combat cybercrime and strengthen the protection of intellectual property rights in the digital economy.