Dubai Police bust gang pirating satellite TV channels

As part of its ongoing efforts to protect intellectual property rights, Dubai Police have dismantled an organised criminal network involved in pirating encrypted international satellite television channels and illegally rebroadcasting their content through receiver devices, online links, and unauthorised websites before selling access to the public through unlawful annual subscriptions.

Dubai Police explained that extensive investigations and monitoring revealed that members of the gang had been making copyrighted media content available without obtaining the necessary licences or approvals from rights holders. The group exploited unauthorised digital networks and online platforms to generate illicit financial gain at the expense of content owners.

Investigations further confirmed that the suspects actively marketed and sold access to pirated broadcasting services through annual subscription packages, in violation of legislation governing intellectual property rights, copyright, and related rights. The illegal activity resulted in significant financial losses for the company holding the exclusive rights to the content.

Dubai Police stressed that such offences constitute a violation of UAE Federal Law No. 38 of 2021 on Copyright and Neighbouring Rights. The force reaffirmed that the competent authorities would continue monitoring and pursuing individuals who exploit modern technologies to infringe upon intellectual property rights or generate unlawful profits through such activities.

Dubai Police urged members of the public to obtain digital content only through authorised channels and licensed platforms and to avoid purchasing subscriptions or services from unknown or unlicensed sources. The force warned that such services may expose users to legal liabilities, cybersecurity risks, and potential online fraud.