Illegal streaming triples cybercrime risk for Australians

Creative Content Australia has published findings from the Australian Piracy Behaviours and Attitudes Survey showing a significant link between illegal streaming and cybercrime among Australians.

The survey reveals that Australians using illegal streaming sites are three times more likely to face identity theft, fraud, or hacking than those who stick to legal streaming services.

The research aims to highlight the risks associated with illegal streaming sites and is the cornerstone of a new consumer awareness campaign targeting these dangers.

According to the results, nearly one in five Australian adults continue to engage in the piracy of movies and television shows. Meanwhile, a third of self-identified streaming pirates report experiences of fraud, identity theft, ransomware, or hacking after accessing pirated content. Over two million Australians using illegal streaming sites have reported that their online personal security has been compromised.

The survey, conducted by Screen Audience Research Australia (SARA) under the House of Brand group, underscores the heightened risk involved. Specifically, it notes that the likelihood of cybercrime—such as fraud and hacking—substantially increases for those subscribing to illegal streaming services, with 75% reporting that they have been victims of cybercrime.

Newly-appointed Chair of Creative Content Australia, Chris Chard, expressed concern over the results. "The research revealed that nearly one in five Australian adults continue to pirate movies and TV shows – this is concerning on multiple levels because not only are people jeopardising their online safety by visiting these sites, but they're also stealing from the hardworking people who create and distribute the content we all love," Chris said.

"The connection between pirate sites and cybercrime was laid bare, with a third of respondents who admitted to piracy also reported experiencing cyber security issues thereafter, with it increasing year-on-year.

"The danger of fraud, identity theft, or hacking skyrockets for those subscribing to illegal streaming services, with a staggering 75% of Aussies using these services falling victim to cybercrime. Never risk your personal information for the lure of free streaming – you will end up paying much more."

Chief Executive Officer of Palace Cinemas Benjamin Zeccola also commented on the broader impacts of piracy. "The initial victims of piracy are often the pirates themselves, followed by frontline workers, as cinemas and nearby cafes, restaurants, and stores suffer from reduced visitation and are forced to cut staff. This impact ripples through to filmmakers who, unable to recoup their investments, cancel future films, putting another 500 crew members out of work each time," Benjamin said.

"Illegal streamers may not intend to cause harm—they often view piracy as 'victimless.' Yet paradoxically, they sustain offshore criminal gangs that undercut local jobs and opportunities. While the lifestyles of A-list actors remain largely unaffected, piracy significantly harms the livelihoods of thousands of Aussie workers.

"The solution is simple and rewarding. Viewing film and TV legally is not only safer, but ensures creators, actors, writers and production teams receive fair pay for their work, which drives the production of more great content and films at the cinema.

"The easiest way to find something to watch is by using a streaming guide like Flicks or Just Watch. For the best experience, check out your local cinema's website."

The advertising campaign associated with this survey will be visible across various platforms including FOXTEL, Val Morgan, Seven Network, SBS, Network Ten, ARN, Fetch, QMS, oOH, Optus Sport, Flicks, and Just Watch. The creative content for this campaign was developed internally by The HOYTS Group with support from RMK Management and TOAB Talent Agency, engaging Australian creative talent to reinforce the campaign's message.