Piracy persists: Crackdowns fail to curb film leaks online
The Times of India reports that film piracy remains widespread despite intensified crackdowns by multiple enforcement agencies. A TOI investigation found at least 27 active piracy platforms hosting Telugu, Hindi and Tamil films in HD, often within hours of release. The article cites sites such as Movierulz, Tamilrockers, Filmyzilla, 9xflix and Vegamovies.
One recent example is Jana Nayagan, starring Thalapathy Vijay, which reportedly appeared online in HD even before its theatrical release. Tamil Nadu police arrested six people linked to the leak, but the film had already spread widely. Industry insiders say blocking one piracy site has limited effect because new domains and links appear quickly.
Authorities have shut down sites such as iBomma, Bappam and Tamilblasters, but replacement platforms continue to emerge. Other films mentioned in the article, including Dhurandhar, Dacoit, Baahubali, KGF, Salaar and Pushpa 2, were also leaked online soon after release. Cybercrime officials say piracy networks use foreign servers, encrypted communication and automated tools, making enforcement difficult.
Tollywood producer Suresh Daggubati said piracy has become a global “whack a mole” problem because of technology, anonymity and jurisdictional barriers. He said official estimates put the Indian film industry’s annual losses at over Rs 22,400 crore, while piracy also harms workers, technicians, theatre owners, distributors and digital platforms.
The Telugu Producers Council says anti piracy work requires constant monitoring because many sites operate from outside India. Telangana’s Cyber Security Bureau has created an Anti Piracy Unit with cyber commandos and enforcement officers working with the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce. Suggested measures include a registry of rogue websites, faster takedowns and stronger action against repeat offenders.
