HYDERABAD: Piracy websites iBomma and Bappam TV have resurfaced after remaining inaccessible for several months following the arrest of Ravi, allegedly linked to piracy operations.
The websites, which illegally stream Telugu films and web series, have now returned with new domains.
Another piracy platform, MovieRulz, has also become active again. Recently released Telugu films including Gayapadda Simham, It's Okay Guru, Sarada and Papam Prathap, along with Tamil films and web series, are reportedly being streamed on these websites.
Film producers, distributors and over-the-top (OTT) platforms have expressed concern over the return of piracy websites. Industry stakeholders said piracy causes losses worth crores of rupees to the film sector and believed the issue had been contained after Ravi's arrest.
Cyber Crime police had earlier blocked several piracy domains, seized servers and registered cases against operators. These measures had temporarily disrupted the functioning of such websites. However, operators are reportedly creating new domains and mirror sites to resume activities.
Police are yet to determine who restarted the piracy platforms. It remains unclear whether Ravi has any role in the fresh operations or whether new operators are involved. Cyber Crime police are understood to be investigating the people behind the websites.
Officials said piracy operators frequently change domain names and shift servers overseas using advanced technology, making enforcement difficult.
Centre considers stricter anti-piracy measures
The Centre is considering stricter laws to curb film piracy. Recording films inside theatres and uploading them online may attract tougher punishment under proposed regulations.
Despite enforcement efforts, piracy websites continue to reappear in new forms with the help of technology. Authorities are also considering legal action against users who watch or download pirated content from such platforms.
Cybersecurity experts warned that clicking advertisements and links on piracy websites could expose mobile phones and computers to malware and viruses.