Friend MTS, a global leader in anti-piracy solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with MNC Media & Entertainment, Indonesia’s largest integrated media group, to protect MNC’s popular streaming platform VISION+ from rampant piracy. This collaboration aims to tackle the growing threat of illegal content redistribution in Indonesia’s rapidly expanding video streaming market, ensuring a secure and trusted experience for millions of subscribers.
Rising Piracy Threat in Indonesia’s Streaming Market
Indonesia is among the fastest-growing video streaming markets in Southeast Asia, with VISION+ boasting approximately 3.7 million subscribers. The platform offers an extensive library of over 35,000 hours of entertainment, including live sports, original series, movies, and premium local and international channels. Major sports rights on VISION+ include prestigious events such as the Asian Cup 2027, UEFA Champions League, LaLiga, Bundesliga, and Formula 1, among others.
However, the Asia Pacific region faces a significant piracy challenge. The Asia Video Industry Association’s Coalition Against Piracy (CAP) reports that piracy consumption in the region is expected to rise to 59% in 2024. Illegal redistribution of content through social media and messaging platforms has been identified as a key driver of this surge, threatening the revenue and sustainability of legitimate streaming services.
Friend MTS: A Proven Leader in Anti-Piracy Technology
Founded in 1998 and headquartered in London, Friend MTS is recognized worldwide for its Emmy Award-winning anti-piracy technologies. The company offers a comprehensive suite of solutions, including fingerprint-augmented content monitoring, forensic watermarking, server blocking, and legal enforcement. These tools enable content owners to detect, track, and take down unauthorized streams and downloads effectively.
Friend MTS’s proprietary watermarking technology allows for real-time identification of pirated streams, particularly critical for protecting high-value live sports content. The company’s expertise in cybersecurity also extends to mitigating broader risks associated with piracy, such as exposure of end users to illegal activities and data breaches.
Partnership Highlights: Protecting VISION+ and Its Subscribers
MNC VISION+ Commitment
Clarissa Tanoesoedibjo, Deputy CEO of MNC VISION+, emphasized the importance of this partnership:
“VISION+’s collaboration with Friend MTS underscores our commitment to combat piracy and protect our content investments. We want to assure right holders and viewers alike that we are dedicated to providing a secure and trusted streaming environment. This partnership will help raise the anti-piracy standards not only in Indonesia but across the region.”
Friend MTS’s Strategic Role
Shane McCarthy, CEO of Friend MTS, highlighted the significance of the deal:
“Indonesia’s booming streaming market is unfortunately one of the hardest hit by piracy. MNC’s proactive stance marks a milestone for anti-piracy efforts in Asia-Pacific. Beyond content protection, we aim to address cybersecurity risks linked to piracy, safeguarding user data and safety. Our technology will be instrumental in securing live sports broadcasts, including Indonesia’s national football team matches.”
Impact and Future Outlook
This partnership represents the first comprehensive anti-piracy initiative of its kind in Indonesia, targeting illegal content redistribution and persistent streaming piracy. By leveraging Friend MTS’s advanced monitoring and enforcement technologies, MNC Media aims to significantly reduce unauthorized access to its premium content on VISION+.
The collaboration is expected to:
- Deter piracy through rapid detection and takedown of illegal streams.
- Protect valuable sports broadcasting rights and original content.
- Enhance subscriber trust by providing a secure viewing platform.
- Set a benchmark for anti-piracy practices in the Indonesian and wider Asia-Pacific media industry.
As Indonesia’s digital entertainment landscape continues to evolve, combating piracy remains a critical challenge for content providers. The partnership between Friend MTS and MNC Media & Entertainment exemplifies a forward-looking approach to safeguarding digital content and user security. This alliance not only protects millions of viewers and premium content but also contributes to the sustainable growth of Indonesia’s streaming ecosystem.
