Enforcing Copyright on Online Streaming Platforms: Challenges Faced by Rights Holders in the Digital Era

Abstract

The advent of online streaming platforms has revolutionized the way content is consumed, providing users with instant access to a vast array of digital media. However, this digital era has also brought forth numerous challenges for copyright holders in enforcing their rights. This research paper aims to investigate the challenges faced by rights holders in enforcing copyright on online streaming platforms and explore potential solutions. The literature review reveals that copyright infringement on online streaming platforms is a major issue, with unauthorized streaming and illegal file-sharing posing significant threats to the rights holders. The complexity of jurisdictional boundaries and the anonymity afforded by digital platforms make it challenging to identify and pursue infringers effectively. Existing research highlights the limitations of Digital Rights Management (DRM) technologies in preventing copyright infringement, necessitating a multi-faceted approach to enforcement. To address these challenges, this study will employ a mixed-methods research approach. Qualitative methods, such as interviews with copyright holders, will be conducted to gain insights into the specific challenges faced by rights holders. Additionally, quantitative data analysis will be performed to examine the effectiveness of legal and technological solutions implemented to enforce copyright on online streaming platforms. The research will identify key challenges, including the difficulty of preventing unauthorized streaming, the prevalence of illegal file-sharing, and the implications of jurisdictional complexities. Furthermore, it will explore legal mechanisms, such as international copyright treaties and licensing agreements, as well as the effectiveness and limitations of DRM technologies in preventing infringement. This Paper will also go in-depth about the various initiatives taken up by the industry to face such challenges. Based on the findings, this research paper will provide policy recommendations to address the challenges faced by rights holders. The aim is to propose improvements to legal frameworks, enforcement mechanisms, and industry practices. By addressing these challenges, it is expected that effective enforcement of copyright on online streaming platforms can be achieved, ensuring fair compensation for rights holders and fostering a sustainable ecosystem for digital content creation and distribution.