Hyderabad: The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) and the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce (TFCC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen action against digital film piracy affecting the Telugu film industry.
Through the MoU, both organisations agreed to set up a structured and technology-driven framework. The initiative aims to tackle online copyright violations that often emerge within minutes of a film’s release. Therefore, the focus will remain on speed and coordination.
The MoU was signed by Shikha Goel, Director of the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau, and Daggubati Suresh Babu, President of the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce. B. Shivadhar Reddy, Director General of Police, Telangana, attended the event.
MoU sets framework for swift anti-piracy action
According to TGCSB, digital piracy now functions as an organised cybercrime. Piracy networks circulate content through websites, social media platforms, messaging groups, IPTV streams, mobile apps, and camcording networks. As a result, films often get pirated within minutes of release.
Under the MoU, TGCSB and TFCC will share real-time intelligence on piracy networks. In addition, TFCC anti-piracy agents will operate from the TGCSB Integrated Command and Control Centre. This arrangement will ensure faster coordination with cybercrime officers.
The agreement also enables authorities to take swift legal action on verified complaints. Moreover, agencies will expedite the takedown and blocking of pirated content. For this purpose, officials will coordinate with ISPs, OTT platforms, social media companies, and app stores.
Further, both sides will deploy technology tools such as automated crawlers, analytics, and content identification systems. They also agreed to conduct joint awareness programmes to educate stakeholders and the public on piracy risks.
The MoU provides for regular review meetings as well. Besides this, agencies will coordinate closely during major film releases. Authorities will also develop standard operating procedures for piracy-related cybercrime investigations.
Speaking on the occasion, Shivadhar Reddy said digital piracy has evolved into a well-organised cybercrime ecosystem. Therefore, continuous coordination between law enforcement and the industry has become essential.
Shikha Goel said digital piracy remains one of the most time-sensitive cybercrimes. She added that even a short delay can cause irreversible losses to filmmakers and rights holders.
Suresh Babu said the Telangana government has taken a leading role in fighting piracy. He cited recent action against platforms such as Tamil-blasters and iBomma as proof. He also said the Telugu film industry has remained the only one in the country with a dedicated anti-piracy cell for over 15 years.