IFTA Introduces New Anti-Piracy Measures

LOS ANGELES: As part of its campaign aimed at addressing Internet piracy, The Independent Film & Television Alliance (IFTA) has introduced its members to a number of enhanced security features through its new iWatch trial program.

IFTA has partnered with Australian Internet security firm IP-Echelon to offer all its members complimentary anti-piracy services. The iWatch trial program provides IFTA members with services such as monitoring and reporting piracy activities on the Internet, removal of pirated material through take-down notices and online distribution of encrypted movie screeners through a secure website, rather than DVD screeners.

“Internet piracy has been devastating for our members and for the independent distributors around the world on which we depend,” said IFTA’s president and CEO, Jean Prewitt. “Technical solutions like these, which take into account the unique interests of independents, allow our members to take direct action to mitigate the growing economic damage of worldwide internet piracy.”

“We are excited about our partnership with IFTA,” said IP-Echelon’s founder and CEO, Adrian Leatherland. “Piracy is especially detrimental to independent filmmakers because they typically operate within tight budgets. We hope that, with reduced piracy and innovative distribution services to protect films in the pre-release stages, it will become viable for filmmakers to bring more independent production to our screens.”

Commenting on the new iWatch service, Elisabeth Costa de Beauregard Rose from Lakeshore Entertainment said, “This is a fantastic opportunity for IFTA members to engage with new technology in protecting their copyrights. We are grateful that IFTA is making this trial possible.”