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BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front): The National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel) is intensifying supervision against internet providers that offer TV channels and other audiovisual content without authorization from the rights holders. The practice, common in packages that combine broadband and access to channels, has come under the regulator’s sights, which promises to hold companies involved in illegal distribution accountable.
During the Abrint Nordeste event, held in Fortaleza on November 6, Anatel’s superintendent of inspection, Gesiléa Fonseca, stated that the agency has already identified 13 cases of providers distributing audiovisual content illegally. The incidents were forwarded to the National Cinema Agency (Ancine), responsible for taking the appropriate measures.
The executive highlighted that a company can legally act as an internet provider, with authorization to provide the Multimedia Communication Service (SCM), but commit irregularities by offering pay TV without the necessary license for the Conditional Access Service (SeAC). According to Fonseca, unauthorized distribution constitutes copyright infringement and may have criminal consequences.
The Brazilian Pay Television Association (ABTA) also participates in the movement against the illegal distribution of content. During the same debate, Jonas Antunes, representative of the entity, stated that there is an extensive list of providers reported by copyright holders.
The association has already identified at least five providers notified of copyright infringement. The guideline is that companies check whether they have valid contracts to distribute the channels and content offered to subscribers.
The alert also applies to those who hire intermediary suppliers. Even if the provider does not negotiate directly with the companies responsible for the channels, it must require documents that prove authorization for distribution. If there are doubts about the regularity of the service, the recommendation is to look for another supplier.
The fight against pirated TV is part of a broader offensive against clandestine activities in the telecommunications sector. Since last year, Anatel has started to require grants from all broadband providers. As a result, around 5 thousand companies were excluded from the agency’s register.
Inspectors are also keeping an eye on providers that use equipment of illegal origin, including devices stolen from other operators. According to the superintendent, the actions have already resulted in the seizure of almost R$400,000 in illegal equipment and 10 arrests in the act, with the support of police forces.
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